The 84,000 tonnes-a-year capacity plant sorts recyclables from Hammersmith and Fulham, Lambeth, Wandsworth and the royal borough of Kensington and Chelsea – the four Western Riverside Waste Authority (WRWA) member boroughs. The MRF is run by the WRWA and its contractor, Cory.
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said they were called to the scene by the London Ambulance Service at around 13:20 on Monday (24 April). They added that a member of staff, aged in his 40s, was pronounced dead at the scene and his next of kin have been informed.
The Met added that the death is being treated as unexpected, but is not suspicious.
A HSE spokesperson added: “We are aware of the incident at Wandsworth recycling centre and are making enquiries alongside the Metropolitan Police.”
MRF
A spokesperson speaking on behalf of the WRWA and Cory said: “We are deeply saddened to confirm that a team member lost their life at the Smugglers Way Materials Recycling Facility on Monday 24 April. The family have been informed and are being offered support.
“Work at the recycling facility has been suspended whilst we assist the police and the Health and Safety Executive with the investigation, and alternative arrangements are in place to deal with recyclable material in the meantime.
“Our thoughts are with the family of the individual involved, and we are working to support all our colleagues during this difficult time.”
The site was approved by Wandsworth council in 2005 and opened by Princess Anne in 2011 (see letsrecycle.com story).
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