Pylon payout: paralysed worker wins £10m after fall

HSE says pylon accident could have been prevented

Gavin Pugh was dismantling the structure in Staffordshire in April 2022 when his safety line slipped free.

He had attached it to a section of the pylon that was supported at just one end, leaving him to plunge 30ft to the ground.

The impact left Pugh with serious injuries to his neck, brain, shoulder, ribs and internal organs. He now requires a wheelchair and will need extensive care and rehabilitation for the rest of his life.

An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that Wood Transmission and Distribution had failed to put sufficient safety measures in place. The company was ordered to pay a £240,000 fine in 2024.

Pugh subsequently pursued a compensation claim through the High Court, with his lawyers now confirming that a settlement worth eight figures has been reached.

HSE inspector Robert Gidman said the accident should never have happened, pointing to several areas where better precautions could have prevented the fall.

“Proper assessment of the risks and consideration of work methods, adequate staffing and clear procedures for transferring towers between teams could have enabled this work to go ahead without incident,” he said.

He added that a worker had “sadly and unnecessarily been left paralysed”.

The compensation will help meet the cost of round-the-clock live-in care and rehabilitation, as well as cover Pugh’s injuries and lost earnings.

Before the accident, Pugh was described by his legal team as an active, sociable man who owned a fishing boat.