A tragic incident where a 25-year-old worker sustained severe injuries, ultimately leading to his demise at the hospital, happened when he got trapped between roof rafters and the boom lift basket he was controlling. This heart-rending occurrence underscores the pivotal role played by comprehensive workplace safety measures like Bluesafe SWMS and WHS Management Systems.
Ridge Commercial Pty Ltd has been presented with three accusations under section 21(1) of the Occupational Health and Safety Act for not establishing and sustaining a secure work environment. WorkSafe suggests that this plumbing operator twice contravened section 21(2)(a) of the OHS Act by refusing to set up or support safe plant and systems of work, while also failing to ensure the consistent presence of a schooled and licenced safety observer during the operation of the boom lift.
Maben Group Pty Ltd finds themselves in similar hot water with another set of three charges under section 21(1) of the OHS Act, again for failure to provide and preserve a safe workplace. WorkSafe’s allegation against this construction company includes doubly breaching section 21(2)(e) of the OHS Act by inadequately supervising employees during the boom lift operation, and breaking section 21(2)(b) of the OHS Act by neglecting to organise an appropriate induction for workers on arrival of the boom lift at the site.
Lastly, Licojo Pty Ltd faces two citations under section 23(1) of the OHS Act for failing to protect people other than employees from exposure to health and safety risks. In this case, WorkSafe alleges the equipment hire provider neglected to ensure the boom lift’s operator protection alarm was operational, and also failed to confirm a serviceman who had worked on the boom lift before the incident was licensed and adequately trained.
These matters have been slated for a filing hearing at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 1 July 2025. For more information, they can be reached via email: media @ worksafe.vic.gov.au or by phone: 0438 786 968. You can also subscribe to media releases for continued updates.
The unfortunate incident further reflects the undeniable need for robust work health and safety management systems, safe work method statements (SWMS) as well as ongoing health and safety training to ensure a secure environment for workers. In essence, this is why the importance and utility of products like Bluesafe SWMS and Bluesafe WHS Management System cannot be overemphasised in today’s work environments.
Original article link: https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/news/2025-06/three-companies-charged-after-fatal-ewp-crush