In May 2022, David Snowdon was working for UPS at its Birch Coppice Business Park site when he assisted a colleague who was struggling to fill his tank. Without warning, the gas pipe exploded in his hand.  

The force of the blast led to the loss of his right thumb and part of his ring finger, leaving his dominant hand permanently affected. He also suffered hearing loss, tinnitus, and a wound to his leg. 

His injuries meant that he was no longer able to continue working as an HGV driver, and his employment was terminated in December 2023. 

Following his ordeal, Mr Snowdon turned to Thompsons Solicitors through his Unite membership to pursue a compensation claim.  

His legal team alleged that sufficient health and safety measures had not been in place and that an employee of Gasrec, the company responsible for filling the gas pipes, had fitted a valve incorrectly, resulting in the explosion. 

Thompsons instructed a team of medical experts, including a hand surgeon, therapists, and a prosthetics specialist, to assess the full impact of Mr Snowdon’s injuries, his rehabilitation needs, and the specialist equipment required to help him manage daily life. 

His case has now concluded, with Gasrec admitting liability for the failings, and Mr Snowdon has received a significant six-figure compensation payment. This settlement reflects the seriousness of his injuries and their impact on his livelihood and ensures he has access to the vital rehabilitation and prosthetic devices needed to improve his quality of life. 

Speaking about his experience, Mr Snowdon, who lives with his wife Carole and their two dogs, said: "My life changed in an instant, and I’ve had to rebuild everything from scratch. Losing my thumb and part of my finger has affected every aspect of my life, from my ability to work to the simplest of everyday tasks.  

“No one should have to go through what I have. Employers must take safety seriously to stop incidents like this from happening to others. 

"I am extremely grateful to both Unite and my legal team at Thompsons for their support throughout this ordeal. The hard work of my legal team means that I now have access to prosthetics that have made a huge difference in my life, particularly when it comes to playing with my grandchildren.” 

Victoria Kingscote from Thompsons Solicitors, who represented Mr Snowdon, said: “This was a preventable incident that resulted in a serious injury, costing our client his career and leaving him with long-term challenges. 

"We are pleased to have secured a settlement that ensures he has access to the prosthetics and rehabilitation he needs for the future. This case highlights the importance of proper training and risk assessment in keeping workers safe.” 

Unite head of legal services, Stephen Pinder, said: “Mr Snowden suffered dreadful life changing injuries while at work. From the outset Unite legal services working with Thompsons solicitors ensured that Mr Snowden received all the assistance we could possibly provide to secure justice for him.”