The family of a dad who was fatally injured after falling through a roof just weeks into a new job have won a six-figure compensation fight.
Tragic Ross Hanratty, 28, plunged 30ft to his death while working on an industrial unit. He hadn’t been warned the roof he was cleaning was dangerously fragile so left his safety harness unattached. The accident robbed his daughter, five, and son, four, of their dad. Now Ross’s family has settled out of court after claiming his employer, Ipsum Drainage, ignored safety guidelines.
His mum, Marion, 67, said: “Losing Ross has been the hardest thing we’ve all had to deal with. For more than two years, the incident has been subject to speculation – a speculation that has only inflamed the pain and trauma we were already trying to cope with. But at least now we have the answers we need to process things and present the truth about what happened that day.”
Ross, from Paisley, died in October 2022. The drainage technician was pronounced dead at Seafield Industrial Estate in Edinburgh.
Lawyers for the family argued bosses hadn’t carried out an appropriate risk assessment and failed to provide proper training, instruction or supervision. Ipsum admitted liability but claimed Ross’s own negligence had contributed to the accident.
Sarah Douglas, of Digby Brown Solicitors – who represented Marion, dad Frank, his sister and children – said: “What happened to Ross was an avoidable tragedy. His family have shown great strength and courage in their quest for answers and justice.”
Ipsum may yet face prosecution over Ross’s death as a Crown Office probe is ongoing. The firm was approached for comment.
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