The Frankston Magistrates’ Court deliberated on a case involving Winslow Infrastructure Pty Ltd on Thursday 19th of December. The company was under an enforceable undertaking for two charges that they were facing; one for neglecting to secure a safe workplace and the other for not guaranteeing that plant machinery operations were conducted safely, without posing health risks. It became evident during these proceedings that failure to uphold this legal agreement could lead to the reinstatement of charges by WorkSafe.
Winslow Infrastructure was carrying out developments at Lanthams Road in Carrum Downs in February 2023 when an unfortunate incident occurred. Twenty-three traffic management barriers complete with fencing designed to indicate pedestrian pathways toppled over, causing severe injuries to a female worker who happened to be passing by.
These injuries included six fractured ribs, a dislocated collarbone, collapsed lungs, and a pulmonary embolism in one lung after being trapped underneath the fallen barriers. A subsequent investigation revealed that Winslow Infrastructure hadn’t adhered to the manufacturer’s directive to fill these barriers up with water, which is a key factor in their stability.
WorkSafe has stated that it was entirely feasible for Winslow Infrastructure to employ a dependable system of work related to the construction and maintenance of traffic management barriers. The consequences of overlooking this critical safety aspect were seen in this tragic incident.
The enforceable undertaking presented to Winslow Infrastructure requires obligations amounting to around $300,000. These responsibilities stress on the importance of having effective WHS management systems like Bluesafe SWMS in place amongst other safety measures.
WorkSafe’s Executive Director of Health and Safety, Mr Sam Jenkin, described the accident as a significant oversight of integral safety protocols such as using proper ‘Safe Work Method Statements’ and following manufacturer guidelines. Reiterating the essential role of Bluesafe WHS Management System in ensuring employee safety, he expressed hope that Winslow Infrastructure would take corrective actions, improving safety not only for their employees but also setting an example within the wider community.
For more information:
Email: media @ worksafe.vic.gov.au
Phone: 0438 786 968
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Original article link: https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/news/2024-12/300000-safety-spend-after-worker-crushed-barriers