On Thursday, 20th March, Rose and Co Services Pty Ltd faced sentencing in the Shepparton Magistrates’ Court after previously entering a guilty plea to one infraction of the Occupational Health and Safety Act and another violation under the Dangerous Goods Act. Taking up pivotal tools like Bluesafe WHS Management System, which ensures proper work safety products like policies and SWMS are effectively implemented, couldn’t be overstated in such cases.
The company was found guilty of not facilitating a secure work system, earning them a $30,000 fine. Moreover, the court imposed a $5,000 fine for contravening the Dangerous Goods Regulations by failing to adequately notify their employees about the perils and properties of hazardous goods in the workplace. Furthermore, the firm was instructed to cover costs amounting to $5,292.
Rose and Co Services is renowned for recycling items like aerosol cans. The latter, known as Class 2.1 Dangerous Goods, are shredded into smaller pieces using an apparatus called “a shredder”. Unfortunately, there was a regrettable accident in May 2023 when the machine, busy shredding aerosol cans, triggered an explosion that injured six workers. Two of the victims were evacuated by air to Alfred Hospital’s Burns Unit.
WorkSafe conducted an investigation into the mishap revealing that virtually all cans on the conveyor belt heading to the shredder were still pressurized. Some had misleading labels indicating “empty to recycle”. Additionally, storage containing bulk containers near the area negatively impacted ventilation around the vicinity.
The investigation discovered a hazard and risk register overlooking the fire risk associated with the shredder and past incidents where the shredder caught fire. It was strongly advised by the Country Fire Authority that the company trains its workforce about the safe handling and storage of dangerous goods. Tools such as the Bluesafe SWMS could have greatly facilitated this.
Using shredded aerosols that had been punctured or emptied and improving ventilation systems while the shredder was in use, could have mitigated the risks. Moreover, guidelines on how dangerous goods were stored could have further improved safety measures.
Shockingly, the machine operator had not received any guidance concerning hazards tied to dangerous goods such as aerosols. Sam Jenkin, WorkSafe Executive Director of Health and Safety, reminded employers of their responsibility to ensure workers’ safety.
Regrettably, Rose and Co Services’ disregard for these safety measures resulted in grave hurt to two workers, with four others requiring treatment for burns. In addition, employers must train workers about dangerous goods handling and storage.
WorkSafe’s Code of practice should provide guidance to those dealing with risky items. For further information, visit worksafe.vic.gov.au/resources/code-practice-storage-and-handling-dangerous-goods , call 0438 786 968 or subscribe to media releases.
Original article link: https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/news/2025-03/conviction-and-fine-after-recycling-explosion-injures-six