A Cambridgeshire transport company has been fined £133,000 after an employee suffered life-threatening injuries when falling from a sugar beet conveyor at one of its facilities.
The accident occurred on 28 November 2023 at Knowles Logistics Limited. The company is based at Wimblington near March.
The worker was loading sugar beet for transport when the conveyor became blocked. Attempting to clear the obstruction by climbing the side of the machinery, the employee fell and sustained multiple broken ribs, a punctured lung, and liver damage.
An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that conveyor blockages were a recurring problem. Workers often had no option but to climb the machine to remove obstructions manually. Inspectors concluded there was no safe system of work in place.
HSE guidance states that work at height must be properly planned, supervised, and carried out by competent staff. Falls from height are one of the leading causes of workplace fatalities and serious injuries. HSE Inspector Natalie Prince said:
“This was a wholly avoidable incident that led to a worker being seriously injured.”
Company fined and prosecuted
Knowles Logistics pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. Peterborough Magistrates’ Court fined the company £133,000 and ordered it to pay £5,438 in costs on 24 October 2025.
HSE Enforcement Lawyer Iain Jordan, who led the prosecution, stressed the importance of clear, enforceable procedures for high-risk work. The case highlights the serious consequences companies face if safety risks are not properly managed.
Financial growth amid safety scrutiny
Knowles Logistics has seen strong financial growth in recent years. Its 2024 accounts show:
- Turnover: £74.99 million (2023: £63.09 million)
- Profit before tax: £4.42 million (2023: £3.82 million)
- Net assets: £35.66 million
- Cash balances: £3.06 million
- Dividends paid: £210,000
The company’s acquisition of Masters Logistical Services in 2022 expanded its transport and warehousing operations.
Its annual report emphasizes compliance with health and safety legislation, staff training, and investments in sustainability, including green energy and electric vehicles.
Company profile & safety record
Overview:
- Based in Cambridgeshire, Knowles operates in transport, logistics, and warehousing.
- Expanded operational capacity through 2022 acquisition.
Workplace safety Initiatives:
- Regular staff communication on safety issues.
- Continuous improvement culture with training and development programs.
- Investments in sustainable practices that also enhance workplace safety.
- Risk mitigation systems in place, though recent HSE case revealed procedural gaps.
Sector & risks:
- Competitive and highly regulated industry.
- Directors actively manage financial, operational, and regulatory risks.
- Environmental sustainability and Net Zero targets remain priorities.
