Graham Britten, 46, from Apple Tree Lane, was attempting to move a valve in the main furnace chamber at Aetc Ltd, in Yeadon, last week.

An inquest opening at Leeds Coroner's Court heard that Mr Britten, who had worked there for a number of years, was trying to clear a pneumatically-operated valve in the main furnace room on November 4.

Coroner's officer Richard Musgrove said: "Mr Britten was attempting to jemmy the valve to free it. He was struck by the valve and sustained extensive trauma in the furnace chamber."

Work colleagues rushed to Mr Britten's side to remove him from the chamber and they attempted to resuscitate him. Yorkshire Air Ambulance paramedics, who are based next door to the site at Leeds Bradford Airport, rushed to his aid within seconds.

Mr Britten, who was due to celebrate his birthday on Tuesday, was pronounced dead at work at 11.14am.

West Yorkshire Police attended the scene and a full police inquiry has been launched in connection with the Health and Safety Executive.
Mr Britten, who had no significant medical history, was formally identified by his wife Angela Britten at Pinderfields Hospital.

The opening heard that a post- mortem examination had been carried out by Home Office pathologist Dr Alfredo Walker and initial findings suggest Mr Britten died from head injuries.

Coroner David Hinchliff adjourned the inquest and said that time would be taken into consideration to allow the police and HSE to complete their ongoing enquiries.

He added: "Assuming that there are no serious criminal charges it will be appropriate to hear Mr Britten's inquest before a jury."

Mr Hinchliff also gave permission to release Mr Britten's body to the family for his funeral.