Entertainment company fined after worker dies from fall

ELP Broadcast and Events Ltd has been fined following the death of a worker at their Cardington Hangar Studios in 2018.

Russell Bowry, a 52-year-old rigger, tragically fell from height whilst working as part of a team building a temporary rehearsal stage project for a musical at the studios. Despite efforts, he succumbed to his injuries three days later.

Following a thorough investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), it was revealed that ELP Broadcast & Events Ltd failed to plan and implement a safe system of work. The company also neglected to enforce its own health and safety policy and lacked adequate supervision.

The HSE emphasised the necessity for the entertainment sector to have robust safety systems in place, ensuring that those working behind the scenes are always protected. This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the imperative to prioritise and implement comprehensive safety measures in the industry.

Mike Dean, Scheme Director at ESITS said:

“At ESITS, we are committed to promoting safety in in all aspects of temporary demountable structures and preventing such heartbreaking incidents. By fostering a culture of training, diligence, planning, and adherence to safety protocols, ESITS aims to contribute to a safer and more secure environment for all individuals involved in the entertainment industry.”

ESITS specialist training, accreditation and competency assurance for those working on temporary demountable structures is designed to help prevent similar incidents in the events and entertainment industries.

For advice on how we can assist with improving your TDS safety performance, contact us on hello@esits.co.uk