What caused the fatal fall outside the Bristol Heart Institute?

The fall was caused by a protruding metal flap on a bollard outside the hospital.

Did the hospital conduct safety assessments before the incident?

No, the NHS trust admitted that the area where the accident occurred had not undergone a health and safety risk assessment.

What condition did Lorna Loxton have?

Lorna Loxton had myotonic dystrophy, a genetic disorder causing progressive muscle weakness.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Hospital Hazard: Woman's Fatal Fall Outside Bristol Heart Institute

Hospital Hazard: Woman's Fatal Fall Outside Bristol Heart Institute

17 Jan

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Summary

A woman died after tripping on a protruding bollard flap outside a hospital.
The fall resulted in a head injury and broken hip, contributing to her death.
The hospital admitted the area had not undergone a health and safety assessment.

Hospital Hazard: Woman's Fatal Fall Outside Bristol Heart Institute

A fatal fall outside the Bristol Heart Institute, caused by a protruding bollard flap, has been ruled an accident by a coroner. Lorna Loxton, 55, who lived with myotonic dystrophy, tripped on the hazard in January 2025, sustaining a head injury and broken hip. She passed away in hospital three weeks later.

Her children expressed devastation, calling the defect a 'tragedy waiting to happen' and criticizing the NHS trust for admitting the area lacked a health and safety risk assessment. They emphasized their mother's struggle with her condition and her desire for independence, making the undignified fall even more heartbreaking.

The University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust stated they have investigated the incident and are now checking the metal flaps monthly for security. The trust offered heartfelt condolences to Loxton's family, acknowledging the need for thorough risk assessments in healthcare settings.