05.09.2006

Scissor lift accident

A man in his 40’s died yesterday when a scissor lift, working at a height of between nine and 10 metres, tipped over in Blackpool.

A second man, in his 20’s, suffered head injuries, a broken leg and arm. The two men were working on a block of flats on The Promenade, St Annes, at 11.50am yesterday. Both men were taken to Blackpool’s Victoria Hospital where the older man was pronounced dead.

We understand that the lift, which is owned by UK platforms, was being used without authorisation. And had been off-hired by its original users on Friday. It is not certain if the men using the lift were from the company that had originally rented the machine or from another company exploiting the availability of the machine which was awaiting collection.
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The accident scene, at least three outriggers were fully down

UK Platforms has said that it is co-operating fully with the Health and Safety Executive and does not wish to say anything or to comment on the incident until after the HSE has completed its investigation.

UPDATE
Both men involved in the accident worked for Clement Dickens and Son of Red Marsh Industrial Estate, Thornton.

Clement Dickens successfully tendered for the contract which involves part demolition of the balconies and exterior brickwork as well as new foundations.