A firm has been penalized with a fine of £800,000 following the unfortunate death of a father of three who was struck by a jet hose that exploded. Miguel Galvao, aged 51, sustained severe injuries when hit by the hose at his workplace on December 10, 2022. Despite being placed in a medically induced coma, Miguel’s condition deteriorated, leading to the heartbreaking decision by his partner Estefania to remove life support after two weeks of hospitalization.
Working as a drainage engineer at a Lanes Group Limited site in Leeds, West Yorkshire, Miguel was hit by the high-speed whip of the jetting hose while priming it, resulting in the tragic incident. An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) revealed that the company failed to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of its employees as reasonably required. Consequently, Lanes Group Limited was fined £800,000 on October 2 at City of London Magistrates’ Court.
The HSE inquiry disclosed that on the morning of the accident, temperatures were extremely low, reaching around -3C to -4C. The explosion occurred due to a sudden pressure release, likely caused by ice build-up in the system, leading to the hose striking Miguel. It was determined that the end of the hose should have been securely fastened, such as using the provided vice on the vehicle, to prevent such incidents.
Lanes Group Limited, based in Lower Wortley, Leeds, admitted to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. The company was fined £800,000, reduced from £1.2 million due to an early guilty plea, and was mandated to pay full costs of £8,680 along with a £2,000 victim surcharge at City of London Magistrates’ Court on October 2, 2025.
Reflecting on the tragic loss, Estefania shared how their family, including their three children – Angelica, Michael, and Jose, have been deeply affected. The children have been struggling emotionally, with Michael expressing his anguish upon seeing his father in the hospital and grappling with anger and grief. The family’s dynamics have shifted dramatically since Miguel’s passing, impacting their daily lives and financial stability.
Estefania revealed their plans to marry in 2023, emphasizing the void left by Miguel’s absence and the challenges they face as a family. Recalling their cherished family outings and Miguel’s aspirations, she expressed the profound impact of his death on their lives. Despite the difficulties they face, the family continues to mourn the loss of a beloved father and partner, whose absence has irreversibly altered their world.
