Inquiry into death of man after arm trapped in wood processing machine

A Fatal Accident Inquiry has begun into the death of a man whose arm became trapped in a wood processing machine.

Andrew Sinclair, 61, was working as a machine operator for DK Logs when he died on September 6, 2022 at Brae of Murthly, Pitilie Farm in Aberfeldy.

His right arm became stuck within the moving parts of a wood processing machine.

A preliminary hearing is set for June 6, 2024 at Dundee Sheriff Court.

The purpose of a Fatal Accident Inquiry (FAI) includes determining the cause of death; the circumstances in which the deaths occurred, and to establish what, if any, reasonable precautions could have been taken, and could be implemented in the future, to minimise the risk of future deaths in similar circumstances.      

Unlike criminal proceedings, FAIs are inquisitorial in nature, and are used to establish facts rather than to apportion blame.

It is anticipated that the Inquiry will consider any precautions which could reasonably have been taken and which might realistically have resulted in the death having been avoided and any defects in any system of working which contributed to the death or any accident resulting in the death.  

Procurator Fiscal Andy Shanks, who leads on death investigations for COPFS, said:  ”The death of Andrew Sinclair occurred while in the course of his employment and as such a Fatal Accident Inquiry is mandatory. 

“The lodging of the First Notice enables FAI proceedings to commence under the direction of the Sheriff.

“Mr Sinclair’s family will continue to be kept informed of significant developments as court proceedings progress.” 