Worker struck by falling hay bale (26 September 2022)
A truck driver has sustained serious injuries when struck by a hay bale weighing approximately 570kg. The bale fell from a truck whilst being unloaded at a rural property in Aberfoyle.
Safety information
Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with unloading heavy loads using mobile plant.
Ensure:
- plant and machinery are designed for the task, and regularly inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations
- a detailed traffic management plan including the establishment of a clearly defined exclusion zone and procedures is implemented and enforced
- workers have the necessary training, experience and supervision to identify hazards and control the risks associated with unloading heavy loads and the general operation of mobile plant
- hay bales are never stacked higher than the lifting capabilities of the handling equipment being used
- to never load more bales onto handling equipment, to a height higher than the equipment is designed to handle, nor heavier than the rated capacity of the machine
- care is taken not to dislodge other bales – when lifting bales off a stack and reversing away, ensure that the bales are well clear before moving – do not ‘drag’ the bale across the surface of the bale below, this can lead to stacks becoming unstable
- stacks are always safe and checked regularly for movement
- bales are never removed from the bottom of overlapping layers, leaving overhanging bales unsupported
- a safe means to access the stack is always used.
Always remember – falls from stacks may occur during destacking. This can be caused by trying to free jammed bales, picking up bales with broken strings, and falling from edges. When destacking, plan the work to avoid incidents like these
Related guidance material
- Working with hay bales – WorkSafe QLD
- Safety around your vehicle – Glove Box Guide – SafeWork NSW (PDF, 1466 KB)
- Traumatic event management plan – SafeWork NSW