Birmingham Crown Court heard how a Range Rover Sport vehicle was driven towards the start of the production line on 8 February 2015 – an event that happens 48 times an hour - but the delivery driver lost control of the car and caused a four car shunt.
A worker crossing the production line at the same time became trapped between the second and third cars and sustained injuries that resulted in amputation of the right leg above the knee. Two other employees also suffered minor injuries.
An investigation by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) found the company had failed to ensure the driver, who was covering the shift, was familiar with procedures. JLR also failed to properly separate the workers on the production line from moving vehicles.
“A worker has been left with life changing injuries that were completely avoidable, it was only good fortune that prevented this from being a fatal accident,” said HSE inspector John Glynn. “JLR knew the risks of driving vehicles onto production lines and the possibility of shunt accidents, but failed to protect their workers."
The company was found guilty of breaching Section 2 of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and fined £900,000 and ordered to pay costs of £49,800.
In a statement, JLR said: "JLR is committed to the safety and well-being of all employees, and strives to continuously improve working conditions.
"We accept the court's decision, and continue to work closely with the HSE to ensure that all reasonably practicable measures are in place to protect our employees."
Jaguar Land Rover hit with £900,000 fine after worker loses leg
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National car manufacturer Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has been fined £900,000 after a worker lost their leg following a car accident at Jaguar’s Lode Lane plant in Solihull.
