The UK Material Handling Association (UKMHA) is preparing to deliver its most ambitious health and safety initiative yet – a courtroom drama designed to expose the real-world consequences of workplace safety breaches.
As part of the IMHX Conference on 10 September at the NEC Birmingham, the association will stage The Mock Trial – a live scenario showing how the law responds when a life-changing forklift accident occurs. The event will feature an unprecedented line-up of legal experts and industry leaders, offering delegates a rare insight into how such cases unfold in court.
Among those taking part is Austin Welch, one of the UK’s most respected junior barristers specialising in public inquiries, inquests and health and safety law. He has worked on some of the country’s most high-profile cases, including the Manchester Arena Inquiry and the Hillsborough Inquests.
He will be joined by Marta Tomlinson, Legal Director at Kennedys, who has extensive experience advising clients under investigation from the Health and Safety Executive, Environment Agency and other enforcement bodies. Known for her clarity in cutting through complex legal arguments, Tomlinson regularly appears in the Magistrates’ Court and Coroner’s Court.
Together with Clare Bottle, CEO of the UK Warehousing Association, and Stuart Taylor, Managing Director of Mentor Training, the panel will demonstrate how a serious workplace accident involving material handling equipment could play out before a judge.
The Mock Trial will not only underline the legal implications for businesses, but also highlight the personal impact on those injured and those found responsible.
Rob Fisher, Chief Executive of the UKMHA, said the initiative is designed to make the risks crystal clear: “Too often, the risks associated with health and safety breaches are seen as abstract until tragedy strikes. Through this mock trial, we want to bring home the reality in the most powerful way possible. By creating the drama of the courtroom, with the support of some of the most authoritative voices in the legal field, we are confident the message will leave a lasting impression.”
The IMHX Conference runs from 9–11 September and will feature a dedicated safety morning on 10 September, hosted by UKMHA. Visitor registration is now open, with free entry available to professionals across warehousing, distribution, supply chain, e-commerce, retail and manufacturing sectors.