The incident occurred in December 2020 in Northumberland, when the ranger, an experienced employee of the Forestry Commission since 2018, was performing her duties in wildlife management. 

 

According to the woman, the rifle moderator—used to reduce noise and recoil—malfunctioned, leading to a catastrophic failure that caused the device’s outer casing to fracture.  

 

The explosion projected metal fragments and gases towards her face, resulting in significant injuries, including permanent damage to her left eye and a perforated eardrum. She also continues to experience ongoing symptoms, such as headaches and fatigue, which make it unlikely she will return to her role. 

The woman alleges that she flagged her concerns to her line manager but she claims that she was assured that the rifle was safe to use.  

 

Following her ordeal, the ranger instructed workplace injury law experts at Thompsons Solicitors, through her union membership with Unite, in an effort to determine the circumstances of the incident and whether more could have been done to protect her.   

 

Her legal team, led by Fiona Smith, instructed a firearms specialist who was able to provide advice and provided evidence that the moderator was defective under the Employers’ Liability (Defective Equipment) Act 1969.  

 

A settlement was reached before the claim came to court, with no admission or finding of liability having been made by the Forestry Commission. 

 

The funds secured reflect her future loss of earnings, providing her with some financial security moving forward, as well as enabling her to access the ongoing therapy and care needed to facilitate her continued rehabilitation.  

 

Commenting on the outcome of the case, her lawyer Fiona Smith said:  

 

“My client’s injuries have had a hugely significant impact on her physical wellbeing, and her career prospects.   

“She thoroughly enjoyed the work that she did but sadly has been unable to return as yet due to the demands of her role.  

“It is her hope that by highlighting the circumstances surrounding her ordeal she raises awareness of the impact of workplace injuries so lessons can be learned that will better safeguard other workers moving forward.”