Death of worker trapped under metal fixture at Cambuslang workshop 'could have been avoided'

The death of a worker who sustained fatal injuries after a metal fixture fell on him at a welding workshop could have been avoided, an inquiry has found.

George Alan Boyle died after being struck by a falling metal fixture at Walkerweld Engineering Limited in Cambuslang on October 21, 2020.

Cast iron casing, adjacent to the point where the fixture had been lifted, had broken away, causing it to fall forward in the incident, trapping the 61-year-old machine operator.

A Fatal Accident Inquiry was launched following the death, which aims to establish the facts surrounding a death in a workplace.

The FAI also considers the steps, if any, that should be taken to prevent similar deaths.

The Procurator Fiscal, who acts in the public interest, provided evidence to the inquiry on the facts and circumstances surrounding Mr Boyle’s death.

The FAI found the accident could have been avoided if a number of precautions at the workshop had been taken.

These include clear colour-coding of lifting accessories, better awareness and training on lifting, slinging and rigging procedures, and formal lift planning and method statement review.

Toolbox talks and periodic assessment of training needs, designation of a responsible person to approve lift plans and identification of safe lifting points on heavy fixtures were also noted in the FAI.

Debbie Carroll of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, Scotland’s death investigation authority, said: “We note the Sheriff’s determination. 

“The Procurator Fiscal ensured that the full facts and circumstances of George Alan Boyle’s death were provided at the mandatory Fatal Accident Inquiry.

“The Determination has been provided to Mr Boyle’s family and our thoughts are with them at this time.” 

According to Companies House, Walkerweld Engineering Limited was dissolved in 2024.