UK
Corporate manslaughter charges over deaths of two men at Norfolk chicken factory
Two companies are being prosecuted for corporate manslaughter over the deaths of two men at a chicken factory.
Neil Moon, 49, and Jonathan Collins, 34, were working as pest control subcontractors at Banham Poultry in Attleborough, Norfolk, in 2018.
They were found dead at 1.10am on 4 October that year, with Norfolk Police saying at the time a possible refrigeration gas leak was being investigated as a line of inquiry.
After investigations by detectives from the Norfolk and Suffolk Major Investigation Team and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), prosecutors have authorised charges to be brought against two companies.
Banham Poultry Limited and Air Products PLC are both being prosecuted for charges of corporate manslaughter and failing to discharge duties under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.
They are due to appear at Norwich Magistrates Court on 9 July.
Banham Poultry. Pic: Google Maps
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The family of Mr Collins, from Watton, Norfolk, said in a tribute that he was a “devoted family man who will continue to be loved and missed by all those who knew him”.
Mr Moon, from Spalding, Lincolnshire, left behind a widow who described him as “the most amazing husband and father”.
His son described him as “my hero and the best father I could’ve ever asked for”.
His daughter added: “I will miss him so much and cherish all the memories we had together.”
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In a statement to Sky News, Air Products said: “We remain deeply saddened by the deaths of Mr Moon and Mr Collins at the site of our customer, Banham Poultry.
“Since the tragic incident, we have worked closely with the police and health and safety authorities throughout their investigation.
“Unfortunately we are not able to provide further comment at this time given legal proceedings.”
Banham Poultry have been approached for comment.