Cotswold Rainwater Services Ltd has been charged with corporate manslaughter following the death of a worker at a building site in 2024. Andrew Claridge, 34, an employee specializing in guttering, died from electrocution while working on a property in November 2024. The company, based in Witney, Oxfordshire, is also facing charges related to health and safety breaches.

The charges were announced by Thames Valley Police after a joint investigation with the Health and Safety Executive. A post-mortem examination confirmed that Mr. Claridge, who lived in Minster Lovell, died from electrocution.

Representatives of Cotswold Rainwater Services have been summoned to appear before magistrates at High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, on August 11. The police confirmed that the legal action followed careful consideration of the evidence gathered during the inquiry. The investigation focused on the circumstances that led to the fatal accident and the company’s compliance with workplace safety regulations.

The case marks a serious development in corporate accountability relating to workplace fatalities within the construction and building services sector. The upcoming hearing will determine how the firm addresses the charges and any potential penalties if found responsible.