A CHIMNEY sweep from Co Tyrone who fell to his death from a two storey house, had crossed the ridge of the roof without using the required ladder, an inquest has heard.
Eugene Campbell (57) of Aghareany Close, Donaghmore, died of massive head injuries in the fall on September 28 last year.
The tragedy came less than a fortnight after Mr Campbell, who was also known as a talented singer and musician, walked his daughter Simone down the aisle.
The Coroners Court sitting in Dungannon heard that Mr Campbell had been a chimney sweep for many years and was well regarded in his trade.
The inquest was told that on the day of the tragedy Mr Campbell was working at a property at Tartlaghan Road, Donaghmore after being booked to sweep a chimney.
Householder Brian Edwards said he spoke briefly to Mr Campbell before he started work, however about an hour later he went to investigate after he and his wife Denise noted there appeared to be no activity outside.
Mr Edwards said he discovered Mr Campbell lying face down at the front of the property. He went to the victim's aid and contacted emergency services but said he feared the worst. “I felt for a pulse at his neck, but there was nothing.”
A Health and Safety Executive inspector carried out an examination of the scene and concluded Mr Campbell had failed to use the appropriate roof ladder, despite having one with him.
Instead he had accessed the roof by a ladder at the side of the house, then walked across the ridge to reach the chimney. It is believed he lost his footing and fell to the ground.
The inspector noted: “The method of accessing the chimney was dangerous. Climbing off a ladder that terminated at ridge height onto a roof, and then walking across the ridge to get to the chimney is not good practice.”
Coroner Pat McGurgan, who extended his sympathies to the family, described the case as “undoubtedly a tragedy involving a much loved husband and father.”
He said: “The role of the coroner is to highlight the dangers inherent in some tasks. A chimney sweep is a very difficult job, with inherent risks. It is imperative those taking on such tasks exercise all caution and care.
“It is clear to me, Mr Campbell had accessed the ridge without using a roof ladder, even though he had one. We will never know why he chose not to use it.”
