Probe Launched After Death at Smugglers Way

Work suspended at recycling centre following employee fatality

Smugglers Way Waste Recycling facility. Picture: Google Streetview

May 3, 2023

Investigations have been launched by both the police and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) after a death at the Smugglers Way recycling facility in Wandsworth.

An employee at the plant, believed to be in his forties, was killed at the 84,000 tonne capacity plant on Monday (24 April) at around 1.20pm. An ambulance was called but he was pronounced dead at the scene. His next of kin have been informed.

The operation of the facility, which is run by the Western Riverside Waste Authority (WRWA) and its contractor Cory, was suspended after the incident but it is understood that it has now resumed.

The facility sorts recyclables from four London boroughs which are members of the WRWA - Hammersmith and Fulham, Lambeth, Wandsworth and the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea.

The police say that they are treating the death as unexpected but not suspicious.

Spokesperson for the HSE said, “We are aware of the incident at Wandsworth recycling centre and are making enquiries alongside the Metropolitan Police.”

A spokesperson speaking on behalf of the WRWA and Cory said, “We are deeply saddened to confirm that a team member lost their life at the Smugglers Way Materials Recycling Facility on Monday 24 April. The family have been informed and are being offered support.

“Work at the recycling facility has been suspended whilst we assist the police and the Health and Safety Executive with the investigation, and alternative arrangements are in place to deal with recyclable material in the meantime.

“Our thoughts are with the family of the individual involved, and we are working to support all our colleagues during this difficult time.”

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Probe Launched After Death at Smugglers Way

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