Worker crushed by tandem drum roller (25 March 2024)

A 41-year-old worker was undertaking flood remediation work on an access road using a 2.5 tonne tandem drum roller to compact road base. As he was operating the roller on the slope parallel to the road the roller slid, partially crushing him as it turned over. The worker suffered severe crush injuries and was ejected approximately 5 metres from the overturned roller.

A tandem roller on its side, positioned on an embankment.
The tandem drum roller the injured worker was operating at the incident site.

Safety information

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with using mobile plant.

Ensure:

  • safe systems of work are established and maintained in relation to the use of mobile plant
  • site conditions are assessed for potential hazards before commencing any work. For example, a competent person should assess ground conditions and put systems in place to eliminate or minimise (if not reasonably practicable to eliminate) the site-specific risks,  so far as is reasonably practicable
  • only mobile plant that is specifically designed for the work task is used
  • operators are provided with information, training and instruction so they are competent in the correct use of the mobile plant
  • mobile plant and machinery are only operated within the design limits as prescribed by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM)
  • a safe system of work is developed and followed by all workers. The system of work must detail the:
    • tasks to be performed
    • how the tasks are to be performed
    • the location of the tasks.
  • suitable safety devices to protect operators are installed, used, and maintained. For example, seatbelts
  • plant and machinery are inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations
  • an emergency response plan is in place and has been specifically developed for the task
  • mobile plant is securely stored when not in use to prevent unauthorised access or use.

Related guidance material

Further information

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