By Sarah Donnelly · Published 23 October 2026 · 2 min read
A London construction company has been fined £60,000 after a worker suffered life-changing injuries in a fall from height. The man fell through an unprotected roof light while carrying out refurbishment work at a domestic property on Langthorne Street in Fulham on 10 November 2023.
Background
The company pleaded guilty to breaching Regulation 6(3) of the Work at Height Regulations 2005. Westminster Magistrates' Court heard the case on 3 August 2026. The firm was ordered to pay an additional £6,070 in costs. According to the Health and Safety Executive, the company failed to take suitable measures to protect workers from falling.
Industry implications
Falls from height remain the leading cause of workplace fatalities and serious injuries in the UK construction sector. HSE statistics show they account for around a quarter of all worker deaths. This £60,000 fine demonstrates that courts will penalise contractors heavily for missing basic edge protection and void covers.
What contractors should do now
Principal contractors must ensure all fragile surfaces and roof lights are identified before work begins. Physical barriers or robust covers must be installed over voids. Site supervisors need to verify that fall protection measures remain in place throughout the project duration.
Expert view
Domestic refurbishments often suffer from poorer safety planning than major commercial sites. The HSE investigation found a clear failure to plan the work safely. This prosecution serves as a warning to smaller contractors that domestic projects carry the same regulatory obligations as large developments.
What happens next
The HSE will maintain its targeted inspection campaigns focusing on roof work and domestic extensions. Contractors can expect unannounced site visits checking compliance with the Work at Height Regulations.
Sources
- Construction company fined £60,000 after worker seriously injured — HSE Media Centre
