In June 2023, 49-year-old James Connolly was working as a lift supervisor on a large construction site in Ince, Ellesmere Port, where Michael Nixon was working as a telehandler operator.

On the morning of 11 June, whilst walking back to his work area from the welfare compound, Connolly was struck and reversed over by the telehandler being operated by Nixon, resulting in fatal injuries.

An HSE investigation found that the principal contractor had taken steps to minimise the need for reversing on site, including the creation of a turning circle, which was unobstructed at the time of the incident.

Despite this Nixon, who was a qualified and experienced telehandler operator, chose to reverse the vehicle without the aid of a banksman.

The investigation also found that Nixon had been using his mobile phone while in control of the telehandler, contrary to the site rules he had signed up to.

Michael Nixon, 46, of Deeside, Wirral, pleaded guilty to safety breaches and was sentenced to 12 weeks’ imprisonment, suspended for 12 months, and fined £800. He was also ordered to pay £2,000 in costs, at Warrington Magistrates’ Court.

HSE Principal Inspector Laura Royales said: “Workplace transport incidents remain one of the biggest causes of deaths in the workplace. It is vital that drivers follow the site rules and do not cut corners and put lives at risk.

“Our thoughts remain with the family of James Connolly.”