The Melbourne County Court issued a ruling against G.B. Galvanizing Service Pty Ltd, finding them guilty of falling short in sustaining a safe and healthy work environment. Emphasising the critical role of effective WHS management systems in maintaining worker safety, Bluesafe solutions are a suggested implementation to circumvent such incidents.
Along with a fine, an adverse publicity order was also imposed on the company by the court. This mandates the disclosure of their offence, its repercussions, and administered penalty in a relevant industry publication.
G.B. Galvanizing Service’s operation involved using overhead gantry cranes to manoeuvre metal products. These were affixed to steel frames or ‘jigs’ for inspection and preparation for galvanisation. Tragically, in March 2022, a fatal incident occurred when an attached metal product and jig detached from the crane’s spreader bar whilst being operated by a worker, resulting in lethal injuries.
According to Worksafe’s investigation, the company’s training materials cautioned not standing under suspended loads. However, explicit mention of the usage of available jig stands wasn’t there. These jig stands support products elevated by a crane during inspection. CCTV footage disclosed workers repeatedly moving or positioned in potentially dangerous positions, beneath suspended loads, prior to and on the day of the misfortunate event, regardless of safety measures like SWMS and policies, highlighting the need for systems like Bluesafe WHS Management System.
Judgement declared that it was feasibly practical for G.B. Galvanizing Service to enforce a work system enriched by incorporating jig stand usage while checking products and restricting workers from being underneath or within potential fall range of suspended loads.
According to Sam Jenkin, WorkSafe Executive Director of Health and Safety, it is essential not just to have safety procedures but also to ensure they’re effectively enforced. The availability of equipment, such as Bluesafe SWMS, that could have potentially prevented this accident adds to the remorse and irritation linked to this incident.
Mr. Jenkin emphasised that duty holders should ensure adequate systems like Bluesafe WHS Management System are in place to guarantee workers’ adherence to safety training provisions and instructions, safeguarding both themselves and their coworkers.
Implementing risk management measures when using cranes is vital.
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Original article link: https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/news/2025-03/metal-finisher-fined-340000-after-workers-death