$300,000 safety spend after cold storage warehouse injury

In a hearing at the Werribee Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, 2 July, it was revealed that Newcold Melbourne Pty Ltd had accepted an enforceable undertaking amidst two accusations of failing to provide a safe and health-risk-free work environment. If this agreement is contravened or retracted, WorkSafe may reinitiate these charges.

The incident occurred in January 2022 when a worker was using a powered mobile plant, known as a tugger. Tuggers, which are electric mechanical aids, are used to handle and transport palletised goods. Inevitably, while going towards the pallets, the employee dismounted the tugger before it had entirely halted. As a result, the still-moving tugger hit her, trapping her leg against the pallet racking and causing severe injuries, including a fractured ankle.

WorkSafe contends that Newcold Melbourne could have realistically prevented or minimised the potential for severe injury from tugger use by assuring employees received proper training and identifying any workers lacking such training.

The enforceable undertaking costs around $300,000 and necessitates the company to comply with specific measures detailed within.

Sam Jenkin, WorkSafe Executive Director of Health and Safety, highlighted that employers bear the responsibility of ensuring employees receive ample training to comprehend the hazards associated with mechanical aids like tuggers and forklifts.

He continued, "There's a significant reduction in serious injury risk when there's a system in place, ensuring only trained employees operate machinery or work in high-risk areas."

"The enhancements underscored in this case will contribute to preventing further harm at this workplace and others within the sector," he added.

Feel free to reach out via email on media@worksafe.vic.gov.au or phone at 0438 786 968 for additional information. Stay updated by subscribing to our media releases.

Original article link: https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/news/2025-07/300000-safety-spend-after-cold-storage-warehouse-injury

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