21st August 2026

Unsafe Roof Work In Central London Leads To Fines For Contractor And Director

Unsafe working practices on a construction project in central London have resulted in fines for both B&O Developers Ltd and director Sanjay Swaminarayan, after repeated failures to protect workers carrying out roof work. The case highlights how public vigilance, combined with regulatory action, can play a crucial role in preventing serious harm.

Public Concerns Spark Investigation

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) launched an investigation after members of the public raised concerns about dangerous roof work during the extension and refurbishment of what is now the Kings Cross Express Inn on Kings Cross Road.

In January 2024, photographs sent to HSE showed workers on the roof with no edge protection, no safe access, and no fall‑prevention measures. One image captured operatives standing on a makeshift platform precariously balanced on a stepladder, a clear breach of basic safety standards.

Repeated Failures Over Several Years

The construction project ran from October 2020 to March 2024 and was initially managed by Hubb Construction Ltd, where Swaminarayan served as a director. In March 2023, principal contractor responsibilities transferred to B&O Developers Ltd, but Swaminarayan remained the sole director and kept all site arrangements unchanged.

HSE inspectors responded to multiple concerns from neighbouring residents between 2021 and 2023, issuing enforcement notices to both companies. Inspectors also met with Swaminarayan to advise on improving health and safety management.

Despite these interventions, unsafe roof work continued into 2024.

Risk Assessments Ignored

HSE found that workers employed by a subcontractor were exposed to fall risks on at least two separate dates. Control measures identified in the subcontractor’s own risk assessment, including scaffolding around the roof, were not implemented.

Falls from height remain the leading cause of workplace fatalities, accounting for over a quarter of all work‑related deaths in 2025/26. HSE guidance is clear: safe roof work requires safe access, a safe working platform, and full edge protection on all elevations, including gable ends.

Court Outcome

At City of London Magistrates’ Court on 22 July 2026:

• B&O Developers Ltd, Prince Albert Road, London
  • Pleaded guilty to breaching Regulation 4(1) of the Work at Height Regulations 2005
  • Fined £4,020
  • Victim surcharge: £1,608
• Sanjay Swaminarayan, St John’s Wood Court
  • Pleaded guilty to breaching Section 33(1)(a) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, by virtue of s37(1)
  • Fined £2,300
  • Victim surcharge: £1,108
  • Ordered to pay £8,000 in costs

HSE Commentary

HSE inspector Lucy Ellison‑Dunn said:

“The working practices of both the company and Swaminarayan put lives at risk. Despite repeated assurances to improve work practices, he failed to ensure that suitable controls were in place to prevent falls and did not properly supervise those he employed to manage and carry out the work.”

She also thanked the members of the public who reported their concerns, emphasising that HSE will always take action where workers’ lives are endangered.