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A tree surgeon is grappling with life-altering injuries after a shocking incident involving an overhead powerline in Wiltshire. Joshua Pocknell, 26, thought he was facing death when a mobile lighting tower he was manoeuvring made contact with an 11,000-volt power line. The incident occurred just after midnight on January 19, 2024, while he was working on the A3102 near Royal Wootton Bassett. Following the severe electric shock, Pocknell was hospitalised for five weeks, highlighting the dire consequences of workplace safety lapses.
Devastating Electric Shock
Pocknell recounted the terrifying moment of the incident, stating, “My whole body locked and I felt hot and cramping. I could hear the electricity in my head and thought I was going to die.” After hitting the ground, he lost consciousness, only to discover later that he had sustained serious injuries, including a hole burned through his arm and hip. The trauma of the electric shock has left him with ongoing pain and unusual sensations, including nerve pain and itching.
More than two years post-incident, Pocknell reflects on the profound impact on his life, saying, “This incident has torn the life from beneath me and I don’t think I will be able to return to the job that I used to love.”
Employer’s Legal Consequences
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident and found that Upton Specialised Tree Services, Pocknell’s employer, failed to adequately assess and manage the risks associated with working near overhead power lines. The company did not implement necessary safety measures, such as barriers or proper training for operating the mobile lighting tower.
On May 1, 2026, Bristol Magistrates’ Court imposed a £60,000 fine on Upton Specialised Tree Services after the firm pleaded guilty to breaching Regulation 14 of the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989. Additionally, the company was ordered to pay £6,237 in costs.
HSE inspector Tom Preston commented on the incident, stating, “Joshua is lucky to be alive. Overhead electrical power lines present extreme risks to workers, but the risks can and must be controlled.” Preston emphasised the importance of conducting suitable risk assessments and ensuring that safety protocols are strictly followed to prevent such traumatic incidents.
A Call for Stricter Workplace Safety
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of workplace safety, particularly in industries where workers are exposed to hazardous conditions. The HSE has reiterated that proactive measures must be taken to protect employees from preventable accidents. “Work near overhead power lines should only be carried out where it can be done safely, following a suitable risk assessment,” said Preston.
The repercussions of this incident extend beyond Pocknell’s personal suffering; they highlight the urgent need for companies to prioritise safety in their operations. Employers must ensure that their teams are well-trained and equipped to handle potential dangers effectively.
Why it Matters
The case of Joshua Pocknell underscores a critical issue in workplace safety. Each year, countless workers face risks that could be mitigated through proper planning and training. The legal ramifications for Upton Specialised Tree Services serve as a cautionary tale for other employers: neglecting safety measures can lead to devastating consequences for employees and significant financial penalties for businesses. It is imperative that all sectors prioritise the health and safety of their workforce to prevent tragedies like this from occurring in the future.
