Company commits $293,000 after worker's leg crushed
12 Aug 2024•BlueSafe Team•Source: WorkSafe VIC
Newcold Melbourne No.2 Pty Ltd has entered into an enforceable undertaking worth an estimated $293,012 after a worker’s leg was crushed by a pallet at its Truganina warehouse.
On Tuesday 23 July, the Werribee Magistrates’ Court heard the company had entered into the undertaking while facing charges over unsafe plant, an unsafe system of work, and inadequate information, instruction, training and supervision. WorkSafe can reinstate the charges if the undertaking is breached or withdrawn.
The incident occurred in September 2021 when a worker tried to move a pallet blocking a pedestrian crossover point on an automated conveyor belt.
The conveyor unexpectedly began moving and the pallet knocked the worker, causing his foot to slip into an opening between two rollers and become trapped. He fell backwards, and the pallet rolled over his leg, crushing it.
WorkSafe alleged the company could reasonably have installed a system allowing workers to stop the conveyor at pedestrian crossover points, including warnings and visual alarms. Alternatively, it could have provided a safe crossing system that included isolating the plant and checking the belt had stopped before workers crossed.
WorkSafe also alleged employees needed information, instruction and training on conveyor crossing risks and safe access, including when a crossover was blocked. Supervision was needed to ensure workers isolated the conveyor before accessing it.
WorkSafe Executive Director Health and Safety Sam Jenkin reminded duty holders of their responsibility to protect people working with or near machinery. “Working around machinery is often high risk and it's critical that duty holders not only ensure that plant and systems for using it are safe, but that all workers have the training, instruction and supervision needed to reduce these risks,” Mr Jenkin said.
Mr Jenkin said the company’s investment in knowledge for the wider cold chain logistics industry, alongside improvements to its own safety systems and processes, could help prevent similar incidents.
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