Among the high-profile speakers confirmed was Austin Welch, one of the UK’s most respected junior barristers specialising in public inquiries, inquests, and health and safety law. Austin has played key roles in some of the country’s most complex and high-profile cases, including the Manchester Arena Inquiry and the Hillsborough Inquests.
He was joined by Marta Tomlinson, Legal Director at Kennedys, who brought years of experience advising clients under investigation from the Health and Safety Executive, Environment Agency, and other enforcement authorities. Marta, a regular advocate in the Magistrates’ Court and Coroner’s Court, is renowned for her ability to cut through complex legal arguments with clarity.
Together with Clare Bottle, CEO of the UK Warehousing Association, and Stuart Taylor, Managing Director of Mentor Training, the expert panel brought to life a gripping scenario that demonstrated how a serious workplace accident involving material handling equipment could play out in court.
‘The Mock Trial’ not only exposed the legal ramifications for businesses but also drove home the personal consequences for those injured and those found responsible.
Rob Fisher, Chief Executive of the UK Material Handling Association (UKMHA), co-hosts of IMHX, said the scenario was intended to highlight how breaches of health and safety protocols could impact individuals and businesses:
“Too often, the risks associated with health and safety breaches are seen as abstract until tragedy strikes. Through this mock trial, we wanted 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 were confident the message would leave a lasting impression.”
The IMHX Conference took place from September 9 to 11 at the NEC, Birmingham, with the UKMHA hosting a safety morning, including The Mock Trial, on Wednesday 10th September.