A WORKER electrocuted when he touched a live thermostat died an accidental death, an inquest has ruled.

Qualified electrician Mark Walker, 32, of Croxdale, County Durham, was working one weekend last May at the Department for Work and Pensions office in Milburngate House, Durham, when the tragedy happened.

North Durham Coroner Andrew Tweddle instructed the jury to return the verdict.

The inquest heard that Mr Walker had asked a non-electrician colleague to take the thermostat, which was still connected to the mains, off the wall.

The following day, he went to install it in a new position, but when he picked it up, he was electrocuted. The current to the thermostat had not been switched off.

Health and Safety Executive (HSE) inspector Martin Bailey said it appeared Mr Walker had left instructions and diagrams for the work at another job in Sunderland.

A current testing device was found in his van and an indicator that glows when it is near a live supply was in his tool box. It is not known if he used it.

Afterwards, the HSE said it would look at the evidence to see if further action should be taken.

Mr Walker's family is considering claiming for compensation.