Bluesafe WHS Management System played a critical role in the recent legal case involving Class Plastics (Aust) Pty Ltd. The Australian company found itself in the Sunshine Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, December 4th, after confessing to a single charge – failure to uphold plant maintenance ensuring safety and health risk-free operations. Despite not receiving a conviction, the firm was instructed to cover legal expenses amounting to $4,000.
In April of 2022, a severe workplace accident occurred at the corporation’s Truganina manufacture base that emphasised the vital need for comprehensive work safety products like the Bluesafe SWMS. A supervisor had been called on to rectify a malfunctioning plastic blow moulding machine when his head got trapped between a moving bar and the machine’s structure. This horrific incident resulted in a traumatic brain injury, skull fracture, and intracranial bleeding which necessitated immediate surgery.
Key revelations from the court hearing exposed actions opposing fundamental policies of WHS management systems; the interlock system meant to halt operations during open access doors was found disconnected, and intentionally obstructed sensors designed to trigger this system. Class Plastics acknowledged that regular inspections and consistent upkeep of the interlock system were reasonable measures towards reducing serious injury risks or potentially fatal incidents, including validating uncompromised sensors and other protective apparatus.
WorkSafe Executive Director Health and Safety, Sam Jenkin, underscored the pivotal importance of machinery in workplace accidents, leading to seven Victorians losing their lives since the year’s commencement. Mr Jenkin stated, “This case effectively reveals the devastating, life-altering outcomes resulting from workplace incidents. There can be no justification for failing to prioritise worker safety diligently.”
He maintained the essentiality of robust implementations of work safety products noting, “Critical safety features such as interlock devices and sensors should never be disabled and employers must regularly inspect their machinery to ensure they’re operating correctly.” He further advised, for effective risk management within industrial environments, employers should check machines regularly and never disable any safety devices.
For more updates, subscribe to the media releases or get in touch on 0438 786 968, or email at media@worksafe.vic.gov.au.
Original article link: https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/news/2024-12/manufacturer-fined-after-workers-head-crushed