The recent ruling of the Court of Cassation, Section IV, dated November 6, 2024, no. 40682, has drawn attention to the criminal liability of employers in the context of workplace accidents. In particular, the board members of PAVER COSTRUZIONI were found guilty of manslaughter following the death of a worker crushed by a prefabricated slab. This decision not only clarifies the criminal responsibilities in workplace contexts but also emphasizes the importance of adequate safety management and effective control procedures.
In the case examined, the worker D.D. died due to a serious accident that occurred during concrete pouring operations. The Court established that the overturning of the prefabricated slab was due to serious errors in the production and installation phases, with direct responsibility resting on board members A.A., B.B., and C.C. By virtue of their positions, they had the duty to ensure workplace safety and compliance with regulations.
Criminal liability cannot be confined to a mere position of guarantee, but must be related to an actual lack of controls and safety procedures.
The appellants contested the ruling, arguing that the conviction was based on a positional responsibility and not on an actual violation of safety regulations. However, the Court confirmed that, despite the existence of delegated functions, criminal liability is not exhausted in a mere formal act but must consider the actual organization and management of safety. It was emphasized how organizational deficiencies and the lack of control procedures played a decisive role in the fatal incident.
The ruling of the Court of Cassation represents an important reminder for all employers, highlighting that criminal liability for workplace accidents is a serious and complex issue that cannot be evaded through formal delegations. It is essential for companies to implement effective safety procedures and for corporate leaders to take responsibility for ensuring a safe working environment for all employees. Safety must never be subordinated to economic interests.
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