On the 2nd of October, a case regarding Aqua Metro Services Pty Ltd unfolded at the Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court. The company had earlier entered an Enforceable Undertaking following two charges associated with failing to ensure that individuals other than their own employees were not exposed to safety or health risks. Here, it’s essential to note how crucial implementing WHS systems like the Bluesafe WHS Management System is for businesses to prevent such legal disputes in the interest of better work safety.
Should the said undertaking be violated or withdrawn, WorkSafe retains the authority to reinstitute the charges. In February 2022, an unfortunate incident occurred where a worker got tangled up in the mixing hopper while cleaning residue off the concrete pump mixer during drain rehabilitation works at Moonee Ponds. This resulted in amputation, despite the concrete mixer being fitted with a guard, highlighting the undeniable relevance and utility of work safety products.
Indeed, the guard had been detached to clean the hopper area but sadly, no interlocks were set up for unexpected start-ups. WorkSafe posits that Aqua Metro Services could have mitigated the risk of entanglement using strategies like installing an interlocked guard, utilising a high-pressure hose to clear residue, or practicing lock-out, tag-out procedures if removal of the guard was inevitable for cleaning.
The estimated undertaking worth $561,400 mandates that the company should employ several safety strategies — another area where tailored solutions from SWMS templates like Bluesafe SWMS can assist.
Sam Jenkin, WorkSafe Executive Director of Health and Safety, emphasized on the importance of adequately guarding machinery to reduce risks to workers. He remarked, “Unfortunately when machinery isn’t properly guarded, serious and potentially life-changing incidents are only a matter of time. The silver lining here is that this regrettable incident will bring about significant safety upgrades within this organisation and the wider industry, contributing towards better support for students and vulnerable workers.”
Remember to always safely clean plant and equipment:
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Original article link: https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/news/2024-10/560000-safety-spend-after-amputation