![PP Construction Safety logo and link to home page [1]](http://www.ppconstructionsafety.com/wp-content/themes/ppcs960/images/ppcslogo.jpg)
Inquest into DLR excavator death delivers ‘accidental’ verdict
An inquest has been held at Walthamstow Coroners on January 29 into the death of a construction worker from Luton who died in December 2008 whilst working on a Docklands Light Railway project at West Ham.
He was struck on the head by an excavator bucket and died instantly. The jury has returned a verdict of accidental death.
Stategic Forum review quick hitch use
This tragic death initiated a thorough construction industry wide review of excavator quick hitches by the Strategic Forum Plant Safety Group. This produced interim advice.
More comprehensive guidance on safe use of quick hitches on excavators is expected from the SFfC shortly.
Henry Sheridan, aged 58, was working for Lorclon Limited. The project main contractor was Skanska GrantRail Joint Venture. Mr Sheridan was a father of two and worked as a carpenter on the extension to the West Ham station platform.
Investigation ongoing
The companies were legally represented as was Patrick Finn, the excavator driver. Mr Finn did not give evidence. The jury heard that the checks to ensure the bucket was securely attached had not been undertaken.
The Office of Rail Regulation will now continue an investigation into the death and consider whether legal proceedings are to be instigated in respect of any company or individual.