Public body for workplace health, safety and welfare in Great Britain
A major fire at Highlands Farm near Rettendon, Essex, has destroyed industrial units and a fertiliser store. More than 100 firefighters are on scene, with several treated for injuries. An investigation is under way as authorities coordinate recovery and safety operations.
Public transport workers delivering for Arriva North London are walking out on scheduled dates amid heat-related safety concerns. Drivers report heat in cabs, while TfL warns of disruption to routes. The disputes overlap with heatwaves and drought conditions affecting farming and road safety across the country.
A gas explosion on Cobb Hall Road in Newton Longville near Milton Keynes has damaged a bungalow and left a man injured. Neighbours reported smelling gas before the blast; flames and smoke followed, with authorities investigating.
An inquest has opened into the death of John Orton, a 78-year-old retiree who died from severe chest injuries after being trampled by cattle at Felbrigg Hall, Norfolk, on July 13. The post-mortem provisional cause is severe chest injuries. The inquest was opened in Norfolk Coroner's Court and is adjourned until next year as investigations continue.
A gas explosion in Newton Longville near Milton Keynes has left one man injured and 24 nearby properties evacuated. Authorities are leading the investigation, with SGN coordinating emergency response and a 50‑metre cordon in place. The blast prompted nearby residents to shelter in hotels or with relatives.
A series of court cases have convicted contractors and managers after fatal workplace incidents. In Surrey, a trench collapse at a Banstead site has led to fines and a suspended sentence; in Aberdeen and Romford, HSE investigations and penalties followed fatal falls and safety breaches; a Bristol dog attack case adds a separate public-safety note.
The Grand Burstin Hotel in Folkestone has seen a large fire that forced about 280 guests to evacuate. Kent Fire and Rescue Service confirms the blaze started in the basement; police are treating it as suspicious. A welfare centre is assisting evacuees as investigations continue.
Two firms have been fined a combined £1.3m in a London court after a 2018 incident at The Corniche, Vauxhall, killed coach driver Mick Ferris. A 130kg pane fell from a 26-storey high building, prompting safety breaches findings and costs against St James Group Ltd and Lindner Prater. The incident followed a near-miss in 2017.