Worker Crushed by Falling Skip Bin Hook (11 December 2024)
A 54-year-old mechanic was in the process of lifting weighing scales to a skip bin loading truck. He was working on the chassis underneath the bin hook attachment which was extended above him by two hydraulic rams. The bin hook attachment weighing approximately 2950kg suddenly collapsed on him causing serious crush injuries.
Photo of truck and bin hook attachment at incident scene.
Safety information
Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with working on mobile plant and moving parts.
Ensure:
- manufacturers recommendations are available, understood and followed prior to any installation or maintenance work commencing
- appropriate controls are applied to support the load (e.g. props are placed in the correct location) prior to the works commencing, as per manufacturer’s recommendation
- you have been provided with information, training and instruction so the work can be carried out safely
- you’re familiar with the components and limitations of the plant being worked on
- where possible, eliminate or minimise the risk by not working directly under hazard areas
- you develop specific safe systems of work for different types of plant
- workers are competent in the task and supervision is available to identify hazards and control the risks associated with uncontrolled movement of plant
- an emergency plan is in place and workers are trained in relation to the emergency procedures.
Related guidance material
- Code of practice – Managing the risks of plant in the workplace (PDF, 1987.96 KB)
- Self-Assessment Checklist – Safety around Moving Plant (PDF, 171.08 KB)
- Safety Alert – Uncontrolled movement of vehicles
- Guide – Inspecting and maintaining plant (PDF, 1309.63 KB)
- Guide – Safety around your vehicle glove box guide