As a result of proactive prosecution by SafeWork NSW, Dukes Painting Services Pty Ltd found themselves in the NSW Industrial Court. The court rendered a conviction and applied a hefty fine of $105,000 concerning an incident that unfolded on 13th August 2022. During this unfortunate episode, a worker was jeopardised with a potential fall from height when operating on a mobile elevated work platform. This incident highlights the sheer importance of robust WHS management systems such as Bluesafe SWMS.
Dukes Painting Services conceded to a transgression conforming to section 33 of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (NSW). The offence was their failure to adhere to their health & safety obligations under section 19(1) of the same Act. Those interested in reviewing the detailed judgement against Dukes Painting Services can visit the NSW Caselaw website. The company also retains the rights to challenge the sentence imposed.
Workers who harbour concerns about health and safety in their workplaces can now breathe easy. They have the option to anonymously communicate their distress to SafeWork at 13 10 50 or use the ‘Speak Up Save Lives’ initiative. With the availability of tools like the Bluesafe WHS Management System, business owners and workers can avail resources effectively mitigating risks associated with working at heights.
In response to this occurrence, SafeWork Commissioner Janet Schorer passionately reminded all companies of their inherent duty to protect their employees, particularly when work involves height-related tasks. She poignantly stated, “Falls from heights are a key driver behind traumatic injuries and fatalities plaguing NSW workplaces.” This action again emphasises the significance of practical work safety products like SWMS and encouraging policies.
Original article link: https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/news/safework-media-releases/company-fined-105000-after-falls-from-heights-risk
