A recent case has highlighted the importance of identifying and addressing hazards in the workplace.
The company, a transport business, has been fined for safety breaches after an employee who was already on light duties due to injury, was seriously injured when struck by a forklift.
The company pled guilty to breaches including failing to provide and maintain a safe workplace and was issued with a $625,000 fine and $8,000 in costs as a penalty.
Initial allegations against the company including that they failed to ensure the movement and speed of vehicles and plant at its airport workplace were managed in a way that minimised risks to pedestrians.
“In this case, the company was aware of the risks associated with the operation of forklifts in areas where interaction with other workers might occur,” WorkSafe Commissioner Sally North said.
“Safe work procedures were in place that included being aware of pedestrians, maintaining a three-metre exclusion zone and checking mirrors and over both shoulders before reversing a forklift,” she said.
“However, the Court found that [the company’s] procedures fell short in that they should have delineated the area between forklifts and pedestrians.”
“It had been reasonably practicable for [the company] to use physical barriers to keep forklifts away from areas where pedestrians might be placing stickers on the ground”, North added.
“[the company] did implement the use of barricades after this incident, but unfortunately too late for the worker who suffered serious and lasting injuries,” she said.
Here to Help
Safety Highlights are things to consider, implement and watch out for in your business. They are provided as general information for you to consider and do not constitute advice. You should seek further advice on your situation by contacting your legal advisor. ACAPMA members can access resources and receive advice, guidance and support from the ACAPMA employment professionals via employment@acapma.com.au , it is free for members. ACAPMA Membership delivers this and more benefits, see; https://acapma.com.au for more information.
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