John Lewis Fined £1.2 Million After Agency Worker Falls at Warehouse

Retail giant John Lewis has been fined £1.2 million following a serious workplace incident in which an agency worker fell down unsafe steps at one of its distribution centres.

In February 2022, the worker was climbing a small set of steps to access a conveyor belt at the company's Leicestershire site. The steps lacked a handrail, and the confined headspace made navigation difficult. The worker fell, suffering a broken hip that required extensive surgery and resulted in long-term complications.

At Oxford Magistrates’ Court, John Lewis PLC admitted to breaching sections 2, 3, and 33(1)(a) of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, which requires employers to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of their employees. The company also pleaded guilty to violating Regulation 3 of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations.

The court heard that the manoeuvre required to cross the conveyor belt was "inherently unsafe" and a significant cause of the worker’s injuries. In her ruling, the judge acknowledged John Lewis's early guilty plea, cooperation during the investigation, and demonstrated remorse, which led to a reduced penalty. The company was fined £1.2 million, ordered to pay £11,271 in costs, and a statutory surcharge of £190.

Councillor Mick Legg, Cabinet Member for Regulatory Services, stated:

“The significant fine in this case underscores the importance of prioritizing health and safety. Failure to do so can lead to devastating consequences for employees and businesses alike.

“Slips, trips, and falls are among the leading causes of workplace injuries, and it is imperative for businesses to provide safe working environments. Lessons from this case should guide employers in preventing similar incidents in the future.”

The case serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of neglecting workplace safety and the legal and financial repercussions for non-compliance.

The Incident

Investigation and Findings

An investigation by Milton Keynes City Council’s Environmental Health Team identified the steps as unsafe, posing an obvious and imminent risk. The council immediately issued a prohibition notice, preventing further use of steps without handrails in the warehouse.

The investigation revealed several failings on John Lewis’s part, including:

• Failing to conduct a suitable and sufficient risk assessment for crossing conveyor belts;

• Not implementing a safe system of work for employees and agency workers; and

• Failing to provide adequate information, instruction, and training for staff.

Court Proceedings

Lessons for Employers