National Grid fined £3.2 million after worker suffers electric shock of 33,000-volts

Accident overview

On 3 December 2020, Hollins received a 33,000-volt electric shock, causing severe burns to 40% of his body and nerve damage that now affects his mobility.

Mr Hollins was left hanging from his climbing harness on the pylon after the shock, and his colleagues had to rescue him.

He was taken to the specialist burns unit at Morriston Hospital in Swansea, where he had to undergo six surgeries in just 10 days as a result of his extreme injuries.

Recovery and life-altering injuries

Hollins' recovery was long and difficult, and he required 24-hour care for months after the accident. While he no longer needs frequent hospital visits, he remains a burns patient for life.

He still suffers from pain, difficulty walking, and uncertainty about long-term internal damage caused by the high-voltage shock.

Safety failures and penalties

An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that the incident could have been avoided. 4 Power Ltd, the company contracted to do the work, had failed to properly assess the risks before allowing Hollins to start the job.

In not conducting a proper risk assessment, they did not identify that the arms of the pylon were too short to allow safe working distances from the live electrical lines. National Grid also failed to ensure the electricity was turned off before work began, which also could have prevented the accident.

Both companies faced significant penalties. 4 Power Ltd was fined £80,000 for breaching safety regulations, while the National Grid received a £3.2 million fine after admitting to breaching Regulation 14 of the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989.

The judge confirmed that both companies failed in their duty to keep workers safe, and the work should never have been carried out while the power line was live.

The importance of following safety law

During the court proceedings, Mr. Hollins shared details of the impact the incident has had on his life. Once in peak physical condition, he can no longer provide for his family in the job he loved and now faces lifelong physical and emotional challenges. Despite his survival, he continues to live with the uncertainty of what long-term damage the electric shock may have caused to his internal organs.

Key takeaways for employers

Thorough risk assessments are essential

Electrical safety is a priority

Long-term impact on workers

Even though Mr Hollins survived, his injuries have permanently affected his life, career, and ability to support his family. The physical and emotional toll of workplace accidents can be devastating and long-lasting.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the responsibility employers have to protect their workers. When safety procedures are not followed, the consequences can be catastrophic.

Free HSE advice for employers and workers unsure of what their duties are or how to comply is available at hse.gov.uk.

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