Midland Worker Fatally Injured in 65ft Lathe Machine Accident
A much-loved worker from the Midlands has died in a horrific workplace accident involving a 65-foot-long lathe machine. The tragic incident occurred at Somers Forge Limited on Prospect Road in Halesowen, where 54-year-old Nick Hardiman from Kidderminster was fatally injured while operating the heavy-duty machinery.
Company Fined £750,000 for Safety Failures
Somers Forge Limited has been fined £750,000 and ordered to pay £38,314 in costs following the fatal accident. The sentencing took place at Walsall Magistrates’ Court on February 18, 2026, after the company pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigation revealed multiple safety failures that contributed to the entirely preventable death. According to HSE inspector Sophie Neale, the company failed to implement crucial safety measures that could have saved Nick Hardiman's life.
How the Accident Happened
Nick Hardiman was using a handheld emery cloth to finish a rotating metal component when he became entangled in the lathe's dangerous moving parts. Emergency services rushed to the scene on December 8, 2023, but the machinist died later that evening from his injuries.
The HSE investigation found that Somers Forge Limited had failed to:
- Ban the use of handheld emery cloth on lathes
- Prevent access to dangerous moving parts of the lathe
- Ensure personal protective equipment (PPE) did not create risk of injury
- Undertake a suitable risk assessment for the lathe
- Establish a safe operating procedure for the machinery
Family's Heartbreaking Loss
Nick's partner Melanie expressed profound grief, stating: "He had everything to live for - a loving home and a partner who adored him, family and friends, and a fulfilling life ahead of him. We used to have a life, now I just exist. I will forever miss the sound of his voice, the smell of his aftershave, the feel of his cuddles and kisses, and the times we would spend together."
His father Michael added: "We feel very proud when we speak about Nick, but it really hurts to talk. We think about Nick every single day." Nick's siblings Robert, Glenis, Lorraine, and David said: "We can’t comprehend how someone can go to work and not come home again. Everyone is absolutely devastated."
HSE's Strong Warning to Employers
HSE inspector Sophie Neale emphasized: "This was an entirely preventable incident which has had tragic consequences. Employers must ensure that safe systems of work are in place and that workers are not exposed to foreseeable risks from dangerous machinery. My thoughts are with Nick’s family and friends."
The HSE has reiterated that it is never acceptable to apply emery cloth by hand to a rotating component, as there is a significant risk of the operator becoming entangled or dragged into the danger zone. This case serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of workplace safety protocols in industrial settings.
