Decorator sentenced after stepson electrocuted in Chester
Work safety breaches led to fatal accident involving power lines
A sole trader has received a suspended sentence after his stepson was electrocuted while working on a property in Chester.
Daniel Watton, 50, from Market Drayton, operating as Inside Out Painters and Decorators Property Maintenance, faced charges for failing to properly plan work that led to the tragic incident on 29th July 2024.
Connor Lambert, a 24-year-old trainee painter, died when a ladder came into contact with or near an overhead power line while working at a house in Farndon. He was expecting his first child with partner Megan McCann at the time of the accident.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigation revealed that the work had not been adequately planned or supervised, with unsuitable equipment used close to power lines.
Connor's father, Craig West, expressed how the loss has profoundly impacted him, stating that oversight during planning contributed to the tragedy.
HSE inspector Keeley Eves emphasised the importance of proper planning and safety measures, as they directly affect workers’ lives.
Daniel Watton pleaded guilty to breaching the Work at Height Regulations 2005 and was sentenced to 16 weeks imprisonment, suspended for 12 months, at Warrington Magistrates Court. He was also ordered to pay £10,645 in costs.