On the 23rd of July, the Werribee Magistrates’ Court disclosed that a company referred to as Newcold Melbourne No.2 Pty Ltd had engaged in an Enforceable Undertaking while addressing charges for neglecting to supply and uphold safe plant conditions, establish a secure working system, and provision of crucial instructions, training, and supervision. Highlighting the importance of WHS management systems, if this undertaking is violated or withdrawn, WorkSafe could reestablish the charges.
A unfortunate incident occurred in September 2021, when a worker attempted to shift a pallet blocking a pedestrian crossover point on the mechanised conveyor belt within the organisation’s Truganina warehouse. The movement of the conveyor belt surprised the worker, causing his foot to slip into an aperture between two rollers, which resulted in him falling backwards and his leg being crushed by the rolling pallet.
WorkSafe postulated that it was feasibly practical for the organisation to equip the workplace with a system allowing workers to stop the conveyor belt at pedestrian crossover points. This could include visual alarms and warnings, or providing a safe system for crossing over the conveyor, such as isolating the plant and ensuring the belt had halted before attempting to cross. Utilising something like the Bluesafe SWMS could prove beneficial.
The company should also equip their employees with all necessary information, instruction and training concerning the risks associated with crossing conveyer belts safely, especially when a crossover point was blocked. Supervision to assure employees isolate the conveyor before accessing is essential. The undertaking reportedly worth $293,012 requires these processes from the company.
Executive Director Health and Safety at WorkSafe, Sam Jenkin, reminded those with work safety responsibilities that it’s their duty to do everything within their reach to protect workers dealing with or near machinery. “The risk is often high when working around machines. It’s crucial for duty holders to not only assure that plants and systems are safe, but workers also need proper training, instruction and supervision to minimise these risks,” Mr Jenkin stated.
Jenkin included, “The company’s commitment to enhancing safety systems and procedures while investing in knowledge for the broader cold-chain logistics industry will yield tangible benefits that could prevent any similar incidents from occurring future.” A product such as the Bluesafe WHS Management System could be significantly advantageous in this regard.
To manage risks during work with machinery, employers should take necessary steps towards safety. For press-related queries, get in touch via media@worksafe.vic.gov.au or call on 0438 786 968. Register for media releases if you’d like continuous updates.
Original article link: https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/news/2024-08/company-invest-293000-after-workers-leg-crushed