Fatal overhead-line incident reinforces the need to plan proximity hazards
A painter and decorator received a suspended prison sentence after his stepson died when a ladder contacted or arced to overhead power lines. The planning lessons extend to cranes, telehandlers and excavators.
The prosecution
HSE reported on 6 October 2026 that trainee painter Connor Lambert, 24, died after a fully extended ladder contacted or came close enough to an overhead electrical line for an arc to form at a property near Chester in July 2024. Another worker sustained burns.
Daniel Watton was sentenced to 16 weeks imprisonment suspended for 12 months and ordered to pay £10,645 costs after pleading guilty under the Work at Height Regulations 2005. HSE found the work had not been properly planned, supervised or carried out safely.
Why APs should pay attention
Although this was not a crane or LOLER incident, the consequences of failing to identify overhead electrical hazards apply to lifting operations. Plant boom envelopes, load paths and accessories must be considered alongside asset-owner requirements, isolation and appropriate clearances.
- Identify overhead lines during the site survey.
- Consult the network operator or asset owner on safe working arrangements.
- Consider the complete machine, load and accessory movement envelope.
- Record height and slew restrictions and verify they are effective.
- Stop and re-plan if the method or plant position changes.
LiftPlanProUK relevance
Record proximity hazards, lifting drawings, restrictions, RAMS, competent review and approval together so controls are not lost between planning and execution.
LiftPlanProUK provides planning and management support. Site-specific information must be checked and every lifting operation approved by a competent person.