The introduction of the Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act in 2007 meant large and small sized companies could be found guilty of corporate manslaughter for deaths arising from management failures that constituted a gross breach of a duty of care.

Deaths in the workplace always come at a price for businesses. They involve prosecutions, damaged reputations and costly insurance premiums. But, since the introduction of new sentencing guidelines, the stakes have never been higher. 

Fines imposed on companies found guilty of corporate manslaughter should seldom be below £500,000. Fines for health and safety breaches that cause death should be from £100,000. Of course, there will be occasions where the financial circumstances of the firm will dictate the fine. 

Other factors that aggravate the offence and may attract a larger fine include the number of deaths and serious injuries caused, failure to heed warnings, cost-cutting or deliberate failure to obtain or comply with relevant licenses.

Companies need to ensure that they are fully aware of their current legal requirements, the obligations that are imposed upon them and the steps they must take to make certain they are not breaking the law.

Tristan Meears-White, Partner at DWF Law will review the recent developments in the way corporate manslaughter cases have been investigated and prosecuted, drawing some practical lessons that any size of organisation can incorporate into their management of health and safety risk.

To register for the above event please contact Leanne on 0191 3740233 or leanne@cene.org.uk

Cost: £20+VAT Members / £45+VAT Non Members (Cancellation policy is within 48 hours notice)

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