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Derbyshire Police Fined £60K After Riot Training Burns

1/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

Derbyshire Constabulary was fined £60,000 after four officers suffered burns during riot training in Rotherham on February 2, 2021.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) determined that the officers faced "significant and avoidable risks" due to poor risk assessments and lack of information on flame-retardant gear.
Three officers required hospital treatment, and all experienced permanent scarring and psychological harm.
HSE Inspector Jennifer Elsegood highlighted the importance of careful planning in high-risk training.
Chief Constable Rachel Swann acknowledged the failures and stated that lessons have been learned to enhance officer safety in future training.

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Story summary

Derbyshire Constabulary was fined £60,000 after four officers suffered burns during riot training in Rotherham on February 2, 2021.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) determined that the officers faced "significant and avoidable risks" due to poor risk assessments and lack of information on flame-retardant gear.
Three officers required hospital treatment, and all experienced permanent scarring and psychological harm.
HSE Inspector Jennifer Elsegood highlighted the importance of careful planning in high-risk training.
Chief Constable Rachel Swann acknowledged the failures and stated that lessons have been learned to enhance officer safety in future training.