Corporate manslaughter investigations

The introduction of the Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act 2007 has changed the way in which workplace fatalities are being investigated. Companies unfortunate enough to experience a fatal accident can expect to face a lengthy investigation involving both the police and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) or local authority.

The Sentencing Guidelines Council recommends that fines imposed following a conviction should rarely be less than £500,000, and should often be a seven figure sum. If the impact of a large fine is not considered enough, these companies could also be required to publicise their corporate manslaughter conviction to their customers, shareholders and general public.

With the first conviction for corporate manslaughter secured in February 2011, confidence in prosecuting under the new law will rise. Should a fatal accident occur within your business, you need to act quickly and respond responsibly to the inevitable police and regulator investigation. Ensuring your directors and staff, as well as your business, receive the best possible advice is paramount.
 
Having helped businesses under investigation for corporate manslaughter, our specialist Health, Safety and Environment team understands the impact such an investigation can have on a business and its people. As experts in health and safety law, we are best placed to help your business on the day of the incident, throughout the police investigation and to its ultimate conclusion.  In addition, we can work with your business to reduce the risk of such an incident happening again.

To arrange a discussion with a regulatory solicitor click here or call us on 0800 840 4929.