Companies fined after fatal electrocution of 16-year-old intern

Two companies have been fined following the fatal electrocution of 16-year-old intern Bram Wesselink in Tubbergen on May 14, 2024. The Public Prosecution Service (OM) issued fines of 60,000 euros and 15,000 euros to the involved entities, while his internship supervisor received a 40-hour community service sentence.

An investigation by the Labor Inspectorate revealed that the accident occurred in a damp crawl space at the Drostes hotel-restaurant while Wesselink was performing electrical work for the installation company Eppink. Investigators found an open junction box containing a live wire. The investigation concluded that the companies failed to ensure the power was disconnected before work began and did not adequately account for the risks associated with the intern's young age.

One company had failed to map out health and safety risks entirely, while the other failed to specifically address the safety of young workers. The Public Prosecution Service stated that it was the responsibility of the employers to oversee and manage a safe working environment. The family of the deceased expressed acceptance of the penalties, noting that while they would have pursued a trial if it could change the outcome, the loss remains irreparable.