On 29th April, 2019, Thomas Brooke was walking across the yard at John Brooke (Timber Treatments) Limited in Nottingham. A wheel loader, with its bucket raised, was operating in the yard alongside other vehicles. As the loader advanced, it collided with Thomas, leading to injuries that proved fatal.
Thomas Brooke was working for the family business at the time. He left behind his four-year-old son, Rupert, and his wife, Jessica Brooke. Jessica described Thomas as a kind and caring person who was deeply committed to his family and cherished by everyone who knew him.
In a statement, she said, “Our hearts are broken. The pain and suffering from his loss have been immense, and no words can fully capture the impact. Both Rupert and I have been forever changed.
“We were partners in crime, soulmates, and best friends, facing whatever challenges life threw at us together.”
Jessica spoke about the close relationship between Thomas and Rupert, who is now nine. She said, “From the moment Rupert was born, Tom was a natural father. They shared a special bond and were happiest in each other’s company. Tom was an excellent role model for Rupert, who looked up to him as his favourite person in the world. Rupert couldn’t have asked for a better father.
“I grieve for the future we will never have, but especially for the fact that Tom will never witness Rupert’s future.”
The family has requested privacy during this difficult time.
An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) revealed that John Brooke (Timber Treatments) Limited failed to adequately organise the workplace to ensure pedestrian safety. There were no control measures, such as physical barriers, to prevent pedestrians from entering areas where vehicles like loading shovels, lorries, forklifts, and 360 grabs were in operation. The company also failed to properly assess the risks associated with operating machinery with reduced visibility and did not sufficiently train, instruct, or monitor employees.
It is essential that every workplace is safe for both people and vehicles, with traffic routes that are suitable and well-organised. The HSE provides guidance on workplace transport, including advice on maintaining safe traffic routes and separating pedestrians from vehicles.
On August 20, 2024, John Brooke (Timber Treatments) Limited, located on Fosse Way, Widmerpool, Nottingham, pleaded guilty to breaching regulation 17(1) of the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 and section 33(1)(c) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 at Nottingham Crown Court. The company was fined £22,500 and agreed to pay costs of £44,227.28.
Following the sentencing, HSE inspector Lindsay Bentley commented, “This has been an incredibly difficult case for all involved. However, those in charge of work environments have a duty to implement safe working practices. Had simple precautions been taken, this tragedy could have been avoided.”
The prosecution was led by HSE enforcement lawyer Kate Harney and supported by HSE paralegal officer Rebecca Forman.
