This inspection obstruction case involved a site manager in Staffordshire, identified as David Robert Lane, 59, who repeatedly refused to cooperate with Health and Safety Executive (HSE) inspectors and issued threats. The offence occurred during routine inspections on 11 February 2025 when unsafe work at height was observed, leading to a fine of £3,000, court costs of £6,450 and a victim surcharge of £1,200.
Under section 33(1)(h) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974, obstruction of an HSE inspector is a criminal offence. Lane pleaded guilty after being tried in his absence at Birmingham Magistrates Court on 9 January 2026, having previously failed to attend twice.
The investigation revealed that two inspectors spotted workers accessing a roof from the bucket of an excavator – a clearly unsafe practice. When the inspectors approached, Lane identified himself only as “James Bond”, claimed ownership of the site, and told the team that the men were unpaid friends with no legal right to be inspected. He escalated the situation by shouting “It’s PC Plod!” when police accompanied a second inspection visit a week later, continuing to deny their authority.
HSE inspector Gareth Langston said:
“This case highlights the difficulties we face in trying to improve the health and safety of workers across Great Britain.
“HSE inspectors have an important job to do, in safeguarding the health, safety and welfare of people at work. This includes investigating incidents and securing justice for innocent workers and the families that are tragically left behind.
“We conduct more than 13,000 inspections every year and it is through this proactive engagement that we are able to advise employers on how they can improve their ways of working; we only take enforcement action when the circumstances require it.
“We accept that not all employers will be pleased to see us, but the majority are professional and accept us with good grace.
“HSE will not tolerate the obstruction of its inspectors, and may prosecute offenders in rare cases such as this, where this is necessary.”
The prosecution was led by enforcement lawyer Edward Parton and paralegal officer Hannah Snelling. Lane’s conduct included expletive‑laden emails to HSE staff, one reading “I won’t jump through your hoops”.
Inspection obstruction — Key Findings
- David Robert Lane, 59 – site manager who threatened inspectors and claimed the name James Bond
- 11 February 2025 – initial unsafe work observed; second visit a week later with police support
- Obstruction of HSE inspection at a cottage refurbishment in Rugeley, Staffordshire
- Fine: £3,000; Costs: £6,450; Surcharge: £1,200
- Birmingham Magistrates Court – sentencing on 9 January 2026
- Breach of section 33(1)(h) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974
- Enforcement lawyer Edward Parton and paralegal officer Hannah Snelling
Why This Matters to Employers
Employers have a legal duty under the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 to allow authorised inspectors access to workplaces. Refusing entry or threatening staff can result in fines, court costs and reputational damage.
The financial impact of this case – over £10,000 in penalties alone – shows how costly non‑cooperation can be, and highlights the risk of further civil claims if unsafe practices lead to injury.
How to Protect Your Business
- Conduct a thorough risk assessment of all work at height and ensure safe access methods are documented.
- Brief your team with regular toolbox talks covering the importance of cooperating with HSE inspectors.
- Review your policy templates to include clear procedures for inspector visits and escalation routes.
- Maintain accurate records of site activities and promptly correct identified unsafe practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is inspection obstruction?
Inspection obstruction occurs when a person deliberately prevents an HSE inspector from carrying out their duties, for example by refusing entry, providing false information or issuing threats.
Can a fine be reduced if I cooperate later?
The courts may consider early cooperation as a mitigating factor, but the statutory maximum penalties still apply under the Act.
What should I do if an inspector arrives unexpectedly?
Allow access, provide any requested documentation, and record the visit. If you have concerns about safety, raise them constructively rather than obstructing.
Source: ‘James Bond’ builder who threatened HSE inspectors found guilty – HSE Media Centre