An investigation has been launched after a man in his 30s died in an ‘industrial incident’ after becoming trapped by agricultural machinery on 11 April.
According to health and safety watchdog HSE, the farm worker was “trapped and killed by agricultural machinery” at a site that media have linked to vegetable grower Southern England Farms. Police, paramedics and the air ambulance were called to a field near Trispen, near Truro, at about 7.30am on Thursday 11 April.
A spokesman for Devon and Cornwall Police said, “Officers, along with the air ambulance, attended the scene where a male in his 30s was pronounced deceased. His next of kin has been informed. Police and Health and Safety Executive are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. A file will be prepared for the coroner.”
In a statement, HSE commented, ‘Machinery accidents are caused by a range of factors including using a machine that is unsuitable for the task; failing to follow a safe system of work; and unsafe methods for clearing blockages or making adjustments.
‘All equipment and plant should be safely maintained in good working order. Maintenance work can introduce new hazards and risks that need to be controlled so the work can be undertaken safely.
‘Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedules for work equipment such as tractors and vehicles, lift trucks, ATVs (quad bikes), portable electrical equipment, and farm machinery.’
