All industries

A farm worker died after he was run over by a 3-tonne telehandler as it was reversing. The telehandler operator was transporting straw bales from a stack into a straw chopper located near a poultry shed.  As the operator reversed to pick up another bale from the stack, the worker was run over by the telehandler.

Site specific traffic management control measures must be implemented to manage the risk of mobile plant causing harm to pedestrians.

Keep people and vehicles apart. Have clearly defined pedestrian only spaces and vehicle only spaces, by:

• implementing fixed and secured barriers that prevent people accessing vehicle only areas,
• defining pedestrian areas through permanent or temporary barriers or markings, or
• use high impact traffic control barriers e.g. bollards or temporary structures.

If it is not reasonably practicable to separate people and vehicles, implement additional controls to minimise the risks such as:

• using devices like reversing sensors, reversing cameras, mirrors, rotating lights or audible reversing alarms
• have a spotter direct the reversing vehicle (the spotter must remain in visible contact with the driver at all times)
• provide clearly identified designated reversing areas
• restrict the use of mobile phones by drivers and pedestrians.

Develop a traffic management plan for the site which covers controls and procedures. Further to that, train, instruct and supervise your workers on the traffic management plan.

More information

Code of practice – Managing the risk of plant in the workplace (PDF 2.1MB)

Workplace traffic management guidance material - Safe Work Australia

Plant: Your health and safety guide (PDF 520kb) – WorkSafe Victoria

A 52-year-old worker was killed while conducting minor maintenance works on a home-made front tank attachment on a tractor. Initial inquiries indicate the worker was crushed when the attachment, suspended by the tractor, shifted, resulting in a partial failure of the welded area.

Safety information

You must consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with working with tractors and attachments, including:

• assessing the risks associated with each attachment used on the tractor
• planning and selecting the correct equipment or attachment for the task
• ensuring any attachments used on the tractor are:
  • designed for the task being carried out
  • installed in accordance with the supplier or manufacturer’s instructions
  • suitable for the load being moved or lifted
  • regularly inspected and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions
• establishing safe systems of work for inspecting or working underneath a tractor including lowering any moveable attachments to the ground or blocking the attachment
• ensuring any work or modification to the tractor is designed and carried out by a competent person
• ensuring tractor operators and those making modifications are trained and competent in the correct use of the tractor and any attachments, and have access to all relevant safety information provided by the manufacturer.

More information

• Safe design and operation of tractors – Code of practice [PDF 512 kb]
• Managing the risks of plant in the workplace - Code of practice [PDF 2.1MB]
• Tractor safety precautions
• Safe use of tractors with attachments [PDF 5.5MB]
• Guide for managing the risks of machinery in rural workplaces
• ISO 6746-2 Earth-moving machinery – Definitions of dimensions and codes – Part 2: Equipment and attachments

A worker sustained serious injuries while operating a roller-compactor at a rural property in the Hunter Valley when the vehicle rolled over. The roller-compactor was fitted with a rollover protection system, however the worker was not wearing a seatbelt and was ejected from the cabin through the front windscreen.

Vehicle rollovers are one of the highest causes of fatalities in the agricultural industry. Businesses must implement ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with the rollover of vehicles such as tractors and earthmoving machinery.

• Fit mobile plant with operator protective devices in accordance with the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017. Operator protective devices include; a Rollover Protective Structure (ROPS), a Falling Object Protective Structure (FOPS), operator restraining devices and seatbelts
• Ensure mobile plant operators always wear a seatbelt while operating the machinery, to keep the operator within the protected ROPS/FOPS
• Consider the installation of warning devices and ignition interlocks for seatbelts in mobile plant
• Regularly inspect the ROPS/FOPS for rust, cracks, fatigue and deformation and replace any equipment showing any indication of reduced structural integrity
• Never modify the structure of the ROPS/FOPS (e.g. weld or drill) because it could undermine its structural integrity.

More information

• Code of Practice – Safe design and operation of tractors (PDF 511KB)
• Code of Practice – Managing the risks of plant in the workplace (PDF 2.1MB)
• Agriculture work health and safety sector plan
• Small business safety rebate program

A worker suffered fatal injuries and a second worker attempting a rescue was rendered unconscious as a result of lack of oxygen, when conducting cleaning operations inside the confined space of a molasses tank at a rural property.

Site of incident incident molasses tank with (390mm) access hole

Safety information

Farm work may involve accessing confined spaces including various types of tanks, silos, and pits. Common hazards associated with working in tanks are:

• organic materials that ferment and result in oxygen depletion such as molasses
• using petrol or diesel motors inside tanks that generate toxic carbon monoxide

Warning! If someone collapses when working inside a tank, it is important to assess the risks before attempting to rescue them. A high number of people who die in confined spaces are the rescuers. If an incident occurs get help. Do not attempt a rescue without knowing the hazards, understanding the required response and using the proper safety equipment.

When working in or around a confined space such as a molasses tank always:

• consider if the work can be done another way without entering the confined space. For example, use external tank connections for cleaning or emptying the tank
• have a competent person conduct and document a risk assessment that considers the hazards, how the work can be done safely and the emergency response procedure
• test the atmosphere to identify if there is an oxygen deficient atmosphere or atmospheric contaminants and any flammable gas or vapour present in the space
• make sure only workers with a permit enter the space and a stand-by worker is supervising the work from outside the space
• put signs on or near any confined space and at each entry point to warn that only people who have been properly trained and have an entry permit can enter
• make sure there is a safe means of entry and exit
• establish emergency procedures and run regular practice drills with workers
• provide workers and supervisors with suitable and adequate information, training and instruction to do their work safely and without risks to health. This may include training in hazard identification and risk control methods, entry permit procedures, emergency procedures and how to use respiratory protective equipment
• keep records of training, risk assessments and confined space entry permits

More information

• https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/hazards-a-z/confined-spaces
• SafeWork NSW confined space analysis and emergency plans
• Code of Practice: Confined Spaces August 2019
• https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/your-industry/agriculture,-forestry-and-fishing/farming/silo-safety
• https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/your-industry/agriculture,-forestry-and-fishing/farming/virtual-farm-safety-day

View the latest incident information releases at safework.nsw.gov.au

Date of incidents: April 2020

During April there were four separate serious incidents involving quad bikes and a side by side vehicle. Three of the incidents resulted in a fatality, the fourth resulted in spinal injuries to the worker. It is believed that all four incidents involved the vehicle rolling and crushing the rider.

Tamworth

On the morning of the 3 April 2020, a 64-year-old farm worker went to check stock on a sheep stud. When he didn’t return later that afternoon, a search party was organised involving Police and volunteers. The farmer’s body was found that night in a large sloping rocky outcrop, underneath an upright quad bike.

Wauchope

On 8 April, a man was moving his neighbour’s cattle on a side-by-side vehicle. When going up a steep incline the vehicle tipped and rolled, fatally crushing the man underneath. It appears the vehicle's seat belt was fastened so that the vehicle could be started, but not placed around the rider. The man was allegedly not wearing a helmet.

Gloucester

On 13 April, a 69-year-old man sustained a cracked vertebrae and ligament damage when his quad bike rolled over. Westpac Rescue Helicopter transported the man to hospital for treatment.

Grenfell

On 17 April, a 67-year-old woman was found dead in a paddock on her farm. Despite the flat terrain, it appears the quad bike she was riding rolled and crushed her.

Side-by-side vehicle involved in incident (left) and site of incident near Wauchope

Safety information

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with quad bikes and side-by side-vehicles.

Make sure:

• the vehicle is appropriate for the task, the terrain and the rider
• you do a quad bike or side-by-side vehicle riding course
• you ride at a speed that’s suitable for the conditions
• you wear a seatbelt when operating side by side vehicles
• you wear an approved helmet
• you wear personal protective equipment, such as goggles and sturdy footwear
• you use and maintain the vehicle in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions
• you don’t overload the vehicle or tow anything that exceeds the vehicle's limits
• you assess the environmental conditions, and know where there are rocks, trees, creeks and gullies, and where the ground is soft and rain-affected – a drone might help
• you avoid steep terrain
• an operator protection device (OPD) is fitted to your quad bike
• someone knows where you're going – carry a mobile phone or other communication device
• no child under 16 years ride adult size bikes
• no passengers on quad bikes

Businesses are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in accordance with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.

Statistics

• Since 2001, there have been more than 240 quad bike related deaths on Australian farms.
• Over 60 per cent of quad bike fatalities are due to rollover.
• About 30 per cent of quad bike fatalities involve head injuries.
• About 40 per cent of serious injuries from quad bike incidents involve a traumatic head injury.
• Wearing a helmet reduces the risk of fatality in a quad bike incident by 40 per cent.

More information

• Quad bikes and side-by-side vehicle guidance material
• Farm vehicle pre-purchase checklist
• Quad bike safety rebate

A 22-year-old worker had his leg amputated after it became entangled in an unguarded in-ground auger, while he was cleaning grain out of a flat bottom silo.

Auger guard was removed

Safety information

Farmers and workers are killed or seriously injured every year while working on or inside silos.

The three key reasons are:

• falling from a height
• being overcome by fumes in a confined space
• getting dragged into the auger.

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with working near augers and silos.

Make sure:

• parts of the auger that may cause injury – chutes, channels, belts, pulleys – are guarded
• guards can only be removed using a tool
• you use hydraulic rather than mechanical drive systems
• a competent person regularly inspects, maintains and services the auger
• you shut-off machinery before servicing
• you use a lock-out/tag-out procedure when working with augers – don’t use hands or feet to clear blockages
• guards are replaced after maintenance
• workers are trained to use augers
• inexperienced workers are supervised.

More information

• Code of practice for managing the risks of plant in the workplace
• Farm machinery fact sheet
• The A-Z of farm safety
• Tiffany's film - in it for the long haul

Date of incident: 20 March 2020

A 20-year-old stablehand suffered a brain injury after she was kicked in the head and face by a horse, while leading it from its stable to a yard in windy conditions. Displaying flighty, anxious behaviour, it broke free of the lead rope and kicked out with both hind legs.

Safety information

Many workers have been killed or injured falling from a horse, or being bitten, struck or kicked.

When working with or around horses:

• match the person and the horse – knowledge of the horse’s background and the person’s skill level is vital – this involves a separate assessment of the person and the horse
• make sure all workers are inducted, trained and supervised
• make sure workers wear personal protective equipment, such as a helmet (compliant with AS/NZ 3836:2006 Helmets for horse riding and horse related activities or equivalent), safety vest, enclosed boots and gloves
• create a safe environment, with enough space for horses and workers, and suitable exit points
• develop safe work procedures for moving and handling horses
• move quietly and confidently around horses
• be alert to sudden changes in a horse’s behaviour
• consider the age and behaviour of a horse
• consider things that might ‘spook’ a horse, such as weather, traffic or other horses
• always be in a position where you can quickly move away from a horse
• never approach a horse in its kicking zone.

When leading a horse, you should:

• approach it with safety zones in mind, and make a noise so it’s aware you’re approaching
• do so from the left shoulder of the horse, with both hands on the lead rope
• do one horse a time.

Statistics

• More than 10 people are hospitalised every day due to a horse-related injury.
• More than 130 horse-related fatalities occurred in NSW between 2000 and 2014
• Young females are most prone to horse-related injuries, while males are most likely to suffer fatal injuries.
• 40 per cent of all injuries involve being hit by a horse.

More information

• Video: Working safely with horses
• Code of practice for managing risks when new or inexperienced riders or handlers interact with horses
• Horse stables and track riding safety

Date of incident: 19 December 2019

A farmer died after being crushed by a tractor when trying to jump-start it at a property in Coolabah

Incident scene

The investigation

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Safety information

Businesses are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in accordance with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with working on tractors. Make sure:

• the tractor is routinely inspected and maintained according to the manufacturer’s recommendations or, if none, the recommendations of a competent person
• all work on the tractor is done by trained and suitably experienced workers, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations
• interlocking devices that prohibit jump-starting are in proper working condition, and not bypassed or removed
• you don’t jump-start the tractor unless the manufacturer has given you specific procedures.

Further information

• Code of practice for safe design and operation of tractors
• Code of practice for managing the risks of plant in the workplace
• Agriculture work health and safety sector plan
• Tractor safety precautions
• Small business rebate
• Managing the risks of machinery in rural workplaces

Download a PDF of this release

Date of incident: 5 November 2019

A 36-year-old man died when the tractor he was steering – which was being towed by another tractor – rolled over and crushed him. The incident occurred at Clybucca.

Safety information

A vehicle rollover is one of the most common causes of fatalities in the agricultural industry.

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with the rollover of vehicles such as tractors. Make sure:

• you don’t hitch above the centre line of the axle when pulling heavy loads
• you hitch to the front drawbar and use reverse gear when towing a vehicle, to eliminate the potential for the tractor to backflip
• you use the clutch gently when starting up a slope, or towing
• you use an approved fold-down ROPS, with a locking device, when working inside or close to buildings or trees – and install other rollover-protection measures when the ROPS is folded down
• you don’t steer sideways when going up or down a slope
• the tractor is fitted with a rollover protection structure (ROPS), in accordance with section 26 of the regulation – more information is in AS1636:1996
• the ROPS is regularly checked for rust, cracks, fatigue and deformation – if it is present, repair or replace the ROPS
• you don’t change the ROPS – weld it or drill it - without first getting advice from the manufacturer or a suitably competent person
• a seatbelt, when fitted, is always worn.

Further information

• Code of practice: Safe design and operation of tractors
• Tractor rollover protection structures (ROPS) – Requirements – WorkSafe Victoria
• Tractor safety precautions – WorkCover Queensland
• Safe use of tractors with attachments – WorkSafe WA
• Code of practice: Managing the risks of plant in the workplace
• Agriculture work health and safety sector plan
• Small business safety rebate program (includes purchase of a ROPS).

Download a PDF of this release

Date of incident: 20 October 2019

Incident overview

A male farmer sustained fatal crush injuries when the side-by-side vehicle (SSV) he was operating rolled on a farm in Kybeyan.

The investigation

Caption: Side-by-side vehicle involved in the incident.

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Safety information

Businesses are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in accordance with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.

Businesses must implement ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with operating a side-by-side vehicle, including

• doing a side-by-side vehicle driving course
• driving at a speed that’s suitable for the conditions
• wearing a seatbelt and helmet
• maintaining the vehicle in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.

Further information

You can also refer to the following guidance materials:

• Side-by-side vehicle fact sheet
• SafeWork NSW Quad bike reference material
• Farm vehicle pre-purchase checklist

Date of incident: 5 October 2019

A 38-year-old man sustained fatal injuries after losing control and rolling a 4WD farm vehicle as he descended a steep hill at Yaven Creek, near Adelong, in the Riverina region of NSW.

Safety information

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks of using plant, such as farm vehicles, on steep terrain. Make sure:

• the vehicle is appropriate for the task and the terrain
• the vehicle is maintained according to the manufacturer’s recommendations
• you reduce the tyre pressure, to increase the traction
• you use seat belts and drive in low gear
• the load is secure and doesn’t affect the vehicle’s stability
• you assess the environmental conditions, knowing where there are rocks, trees, creeks and gullies, and where the ground is soft and rain-affected – consider walking the route before driving
• you have plan B if the terrain is too steep or the vehicle too unstable
• the driver is well-trained in using the vehicle for the task being undertaken.

Further information

• SafeWork’s Managing the risk of plant in the workplace code of practice
• SafeWork’s Farm vehicle pre-purchase checklist
• WorkSafe Victoria’s Belt and survive fact sheet
• WorkSafe Queensland’s Serious about farm safety

Download a PDF of this release

Date of incident: 6 August 2019

Incident overview

A 69 year old, male, contract transport driver sustained fatal crush injuries after being struck by a bull in north western NSW. The worker was loading cattle onto a single deck trailer cattle transporter when a bull turned to exit the truck and pinned him against the race wall.

548306

The investigation

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Safety information

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risk of being crushed, kicked, trampled or gored. If you work with cattle during loading or unloading you are at greater risk of being injured when:

• you are inside the confines of the loading ramp (either behind or in between the cattle)
• you put your limbs through the bars of the ramp to move the cattle up or down the ramp.

Handlers must anticipate unpredictable animal behaviour when animals are in confined situations during loading, particularly when loading cattle by ramp. To stay safe:

• Train workers to perform the task safely.
• Design the loading ramp to accommodate the size and flow of the cattle.
• Ensure the width of the loading ramp is appropriate to the breed or class of cattle that will be negotiating the ramp.
• Ensure the slope of the loading ramp is not too steep.
• Put sheeting or panels along the walls of the loading ramp (sheeted panels make the cattle focus on the ramp exit and eliminate other distractions, sheeting also prevents your legs getting caught).
• Use a non-slip material on the floors of the ramp that does not vibrate or create noises likely to startle the animals.
• Use a catwalk and handrail alongside the ramp to help handlers move cattle at a safe distance.
• Fix a sliding gate at the top of the ramp that can be safely used to secure animals on the truck once it is loaded.
• Employ ‘low stress’ livestock handling techniques during loading or unloading.

Further information

You can also refer to the following guidance materials:

• Guide to managing risks in cattle handling
• Working with livestock: factsheet
• Cattle handling safety – a practical guide
• Guide for safe design of livestock loading ramps and forcing yards
• Safe loading and unloading of cattle – WorkSafe QLD
• Small business safety rebate program (use towards purchase of a cattle crush)

Download a pdf of this release.

A worker and an apprentice were waterproofing a laundry in Seaforth when it appears vapours from an adhesive and solvent ignited. The small room they were working in was engulfed in a fire ball, resulting in burns to 55% of one worker’s body, and 45% of the other’s body. Both workers were transported to Royal North Shore Hospital.

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated when working with chemicals.

You must:

• Remove all ignition sources such as heat welders and heat guns. Assess the distance of possible ignition sources from the hazardous area, considering ventilation and minimum 3 metre distances. Make sure flammable chemicals are stored in a cool, well ventilated area, away from heat and keep containers closed when not in use
• Make sure workers have access to safety data sheets and adhere to instructions on labels
• Make sure emergency preparedness on site such as suitable extinguishers and access to running water
• Make sure personal protective equipment is worn as per the safety data sheet for the product
• Make sure flammable chemicals are used in a well ventilated area to minimise the risk of a hazardous atmosphere developing
• Consider the use of mechanical ventilation that is specifically rated for hazardous areas

More information

• SafeWork NSW: Hazardous Chemicals

View the latest incident information releases at safework.nsw.gov.au

A worker has fallen approximately 8m into a lift shaft while working on the refurbishment of a building in Sydney. The worker was removing timber rafters from a roof frame when he fell and sustained serious injuries.

This is the twelfth incident information release SafeWork NSW has published this year relating to falls from heights in the construction industry. Falls from heights are the biggest killer on NSW construction sites.

Safety information

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with working at heights.

Consultation and coordination between a principal contractor and sub contractors on site is essential to ensure any task being undertaken is done so in a safe manner and does not impact others around you. Businesses cannot delegate their work health and safety duties to someone else.

Make sure:

• workers always use a suitable work platform for the task, such as scaffolds, elevated work platform, boom or scissor lift
• workers are trained how to use the suitable work platform or scaffold
• workers are provided with a safe way to access and exit the work area
• you prepare a safe work method statement for all high-risk construction work
• you have a plan in place in case of an emergency.

SafeWork NSW inspectors regularly blitz construction sites to check compliance and talk with businesses and workers about how to work safely at heights. Use this checklist (PDF 504kb) to find out if your construction site is working at heights safely.

More information

• Working at heights guidance material
• Managing the risk of falls at workplaces – Code of practice (PDF 4.1MB)
• Falls from heights poster (PDF 1.8MB)
• Pocket guide to construction safety (PDF 1MB)
• Construction Site Supervisors: Take 5 podcast (Audio podcast)

A 32 year old worker fell approximately 4m after the glass atrium roof he was standing on smashed. Scaffolding immediately above the glass atrium roof was being dismantled and a scaffold standard fell onto and smashed the glass panel the worker was standing on. The worker suffered pelvic and limb injuries, concussion, severe cuts and bruising in the fall. A courier walking through the foyer of the building at the time also suffered minor injuries as a result of the incident.

Reasonably practicable control measures must be implemented to manage the risks associated with dismantling scaffold and working at heights. You must make sure:

• workers must hold the correct High Risk Work Licence when dismantling scaffolding
• workers are provided with an adequate Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) before starting any high-risk construction work, which should be kept on-site until the scaffold is dismantled
• any work undertaken at the workplace is done in accordance with the SWMS provided
• principal contractors have systems in place to ensure proper planning and sequencing of trades so that the scaffold remains structurally safe and compliant throughout the build, including ensuring components are stacked appropriately through the dismantling process
• exclusion zones are established so that only workers involved in dismantling process can access the area
• consideration is given to damage that may occur from falling objects and controls are implemented to minimise this risk, including those that may impact areas outside of the workplace and other persons
• new workers to the workplace are provided with adequate information and supervision to manage health and safety, such as inductions
• work is undertaken from secure surfaces/platforms that are specifically designed to support the weight of persons and/or construction materials.

Scaff Safe 2020

SafeWork NSW continues to target scaffold safety on construction sites. Inspectors are attending worksites and talking with employers and workers to ensure compliance. Inspectors are also working with scaffold suppliers and installers to ensure scaffolds are built to standard and are safe.

On-the-spot fines of $720 for individuals and $3,600 for employers can be issued to those who place workers lives at risk from falls from heights, or for undertaking scaffolding work without a high risk work licence.

More information

• Safe Work Australia: Scaffolds and scaffolding work general guide
• Construction falls from heights safety checklist (PDF 503kb)
• Guidance material on falling objects
• AS\NZS 4576-1995 Guidelines for scaffolding

Safety information

If working at height, planning should be undertaken to ensure the safest method and correct equipment is used for the job. The decision to use a specific MEWP should not be based solely on the availability of a MEWP at a workplace.

When selecting the type of MEWP to be used be aware of the limitations regarding terrain, slope, wind loading and manual side force. Some MEWPs are not designed for outdoor use or have different operation limitations for outdoor use. Note a maximum side manual force of 200 N is equivalent to a 20kg force at waist height.

If you have determined that a MEWP is the most suitable method to perform the work at height, you must implement ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with using the MEWP throughout the job. These include:

• choose the right MEWP for the job and only use it for the purpose it was designed
• ensure that information, instruction and training is provided to workers who use MEWPs
• train workers in emergency procedures so occupants can be rescued in the event of an emergency
• hold a high-risk work licence for boom type MEWPs with a boom length over 11 metres
• carry out a prestart (pre-operational) inspection and record the information in the logbook
• ensure the MEWP is suitable for the ground conditions, including gradeability
• do not exceed the safe working load of the platform (some MEWPs have dual ratings to limit the number of people in the platform if used outdoors)
• do not exceed the manual side force (as shown on the compliance plate) when carrying out activities such as drilling, pushing
• do not work in locations where the loss of control of external objects could impact the platform of the MEWP, e.g. tree branches, steelwork
• do not use indoor rated MEWPs outdoors
• make sure outdoor rated MEWPs are not operated outside if wind speed rating exceeds the maximum limits (as shown on the compliance plate)
• wear a safety harness if there is a risk of falling from a height and ensure it is attached to a designated anchor point on the MEWP

Further information

You can also refer to the following guidance materials:

• Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017:
  • Clause 214 – Powered mobile plant – General control of risk
• SafeWork NSW – Code of practice – Managing the risk of plant in the workplace (PDF 2.1MB)
• SafeWork NSW – Code of practice – Managing the risk of falls at workplaces (PDF 4.1MB)
• AS 2550.10-2006 Cranes hoists and winches – Safe use – Mobile elevating work platforms (PDF 597kb)

A 29-year-old concrete cutter fell approximately 7 metres after temporary edge protection gave way on a construction site at Caringbah. He was taken to hospital with back and pelvic injuries.

Safety information

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with falls on construction sites.

You must:

• develop a plan – in consultation with workers and before work begins – for managing the risk of falls on site, including in and around excavations
• make sure excavations, trenches and openings are securely fenced to prevent falls and unauthorised access
• ensure that temporary edge protection has sufficient height and strength
• provide safe access for workers that is clearly defined and free of debris or stored materials
• limit access to excavations and trenches to only those required to work in or near the area
• have adequate site fencing to prevent unauthorised access to the site.

Statistics

Falls from heights are the biggest killer on NSW construction sites. This is the ninth incident information release published by SafeWork NSW this year relating to a serious fall incident.

On-the-spot fines of up to $3,600 may be issued for placing workers lives at risk by not protecting them when working at heights.

More information

• Managing the risk of falls in housing construction – Code of practice
• Managing the risk of falls at workplaces – Code of practice
• Pocket guide to construction safety
• Construction falls from heights blitz checklist
• Falls from heights poster – Arabic
• Falls from heights construction poster - Chinese

A 43-year-old worker suffered serious head injuries after falling from a work platform while installing ceiling joists at a residential construction site in Bellevue Hill. He was standing on a plank, that at one end was resting on the top of an A frame ladder and the other end resting on scaffolding. The plank was set up to raise the worker high enough to install the roof section.

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks while working at heights on work platforms or scaffolds.

Make sure:

• you always use a suitable work platform for the task, such as scaffolds, elevated work platform, boom or scissor lift
• workers are trained how to use the suitable work platform or scaffold
• workers are provided with a safe way to access and exit the work area
• you prepare a safe work method statement for all high-risk construction work
• you have a plan in place in case of an emergency

When using scaffold, make sure:

• you use a system suitable for the task and compliant to AS/NZS 1576.1:
  • Working platforms at least 450mm wide
  • Edge protection installed on platforms that are 2m or higher
  • Edge protection installed on other platforms where the nature of work prevents worker being fully aware of proximity to platform edge
• scaffolds are erected and dismantled by competent persons in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions, and by persons who hold the appropriate class of high-risk work licence where required
• the scaffold is stable at all times, including during erection, in situ, during and after any alterations, and when dismantling
• people can’t access incomplete scaffolds

Statistics

Falls from heights are the biggest killer on NSW construction sites and this is the eighth incident information release this year published by SafeWork NSW due to a serious fall from height incident. Most serious falls incidents occur from a height of four metres or less.

On-the-spot fines of up to $3,600 may be issued to those placing workers lives at risk by not adequately protecting them when working at heights.

More information

• Scaffold safety checklist
• Working at heights guidance material
• Managing the risks of falls in housing construction – Code of practice
• Managing the risk of falls at workplaces – Code of practice
• Falls from heights poster
• Pocket guide to construction safety

View the latest incident information releases at safework.nsw.gov.au

Since the start of this year, we've been notified of 10 incidents where a worker has fallen through a roof, resulting in either a serious injury or fatality.

Falls from heights continues to be a major cause of fatalities and serious injuries at workplaces across NSW.

Sydney

A 52-year-old subcontractor fell more than three metres onto a concrete pavement at a school in Wahroonga. He was cleaning the roof gutters when he stepped onto polycarbonate roof sheeting and it gave way. He suffered severe head injuries and passed away in hospital.

Wahroonga school

Molong

A  21-year-old apprentice carpenter fell through perspex roof sheeting at a manufacturing plant in Molong, in western NSW. He fell seven metres onto a concrete floor, fracturing his wrist, ribs and pelvis.

Molong manufacturing plant

Alectown

A 27-year-old roofing contractor fell more than three metres through the roof of a sheering shed at a rural property near Parkes. He was installing solar panels when the alsynite roof sheeting gave way. He fractured his back.

Roof of shearing shed

Safety information

Not all areas on a roof are safe to walk on. Even roof sheeting that claims to be okay to walk on is reliant on correct installation and can become brittle over time. Don’t walk on skylights, or plastic and asbestos roof sheeting, unless assessed as structurally sound by a competent person.

Consider what tasks can be done without accessing the roof. For example, work from underneath using a scaffold or elevated work platform.

If you must access the roof, check its condition, the roofing materials, fixings and safety mesh to determine the safest path.

If sheeting appears brittle, you must manage the risks of falling through the roof.

You must:

• install guardrails around non-trafficable areas, or use a work positioning system
• cover non-trafficable sheeting securely and place warning signs nearby
• work from temporary work platforms (crawling boards) or roof ladders, where appropriate
• install safety mesh
• use an adjustable fall-arrest system, such as a harness, with proper anchor points, and train workers in how to use them
• prepare a site-specific safe work method statement (SWMS) for all high risk construction work
• have plans in place in case of emergency, particularly with respect to the use of fall arrest systems.

More information

• Code of practice for managing the risk of falls at workplaces
• Falls through skylights and plastic roof sheeting
• Working safely at heights

A worker was crushed between a punt and piles at a marine construction site at King Street Wharf, Sydney.

While measuring the piles, the worker accidentally knocked the punt controls, propelling it forward, crushing him between the piles and the punt, before he fell into the water. He suffered broken ribs, a broken collar bone and a punctured lung.

NSW Water Police and Australian Maritime Safety Authority also responded to the incident.

Site of incident

Safety information

Implement ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with working on water.

You must:

• perform the task from land, where practical
• make sure operator controls are properly located or guarded to prevent accidental activation
• consider the conditions, such as weather and swell, and choose a safer location if necessary
• make sure there is a safe system of work for doing the task on water, and prepare a safe work method statement (SWMS) if the task is considered high risk construction work
• make sure workers are trained in the correct procedures/SWMS
• make sure there are enough workers to do the task safely, such as operating the vessel, acting as spotter when visibility is poor, and helping with emergency rescues
• make sure all plant, equipment, e-stops and lanyards are used and are functioning as per manufacturer’s specifications
• manage the risk of falling overboard - use guardrails, harnesses, safety lines and life-jackets.

More information

• Code of practice for managing the risk of plant in the workplace
• National Standard for Commercial Vessels – Part C – Section 1 Arrangement, accommodation and personal safety
• AMSA Guidance Notice – Unpowered Barges
• AMSA National Law – Exemption 41 (unpowered barges)
• Construction safe work method statement

Date of incident: 15 May 2020

A 51-year-old labourer suffered serious head injuries after falling nearly three metres onto a tiled surface at a house in Eastwood. He stepped off the roof onto plastic covering a pergola and it gave way. He later died in hospital.

Safety information

Falls from heights is the number one killer on construction sites in NSW and every year there are dozens of serious incidents. Many of these incidents involve a ladder being used incorrectly or stepping on an unstable surface.

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with working on ladders and roofs.

Before starting work on a roof, inspect the condition of skylights, plastic sheeting and asbestos cement sheeting, wire mesh and anchor points. To determine if surfaces are safe to walk on, check the material, how it’s fixed and whether it’s brittle.

Make sure you:

• plan the work to avoid walking on brittle material
• work from a solid construction to avoid standing on the roof - use temporary work platforms, such as crawling boards and ladders
• install barriers, such as guardrails, covers and warning signs
• install safety mesh
• use a scaffold or scissor/boom lift
• use an adjustable fall-arrest system, such as a harness, with proper anchor points – train workers how to use them

When working in situations where a ladder may be required, you must:

• consider using an elevated work platform or scaffold, rather than a ladder
• choose the right ladder for the job. It should meet Australian standards and the load requirements of the job. An A-frame or extension ladder may be appropriate for some tasks, but a platform ladder is safer
• inspect the ladder for damage before using
• only use a ladder if you’re physically capable of doing so safely
• set-up a ladder on a flat, stable surface, or use leg levellers, anti-slip gutter guards and stabilisers
• maintain three points of contact when climbing or descending the ladder - two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand
• only take small items up or down a ladder – never large or heavy items such as building materials. Wear a toolbelt to enable you to maintain three points of contact
• never lean or reach away from the ladder
• not exceed the working load limit on the ladder
• only use A-frame ladders locked in fully open position
• secure your extension ladder at the top, bottom or both - or have someone hold it
• make sure the ladder is one metre past the stepping point
• extension ladders are angled at a ratio of 1:4 - position the base of the ladder one metre away from the structure for every four metres of height
• not climb or work past the second-last rung of a ladder, and never straddle the top of an A-frame ladder
• make sure fall prevention is used at the stepping off point of the work area
• remain facing the ladder and climb to the bottom rung before stepping off.

Businesses are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in accordance with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.

More information

• Code of practice for preventing falls in housing construction
• Code of practice for managing risks of falls at workplaces
• Safe use of ladders video
• Ladder safety page – Safe Work Australia
• Australian standards related to ladders

A worker suffered cuts and bruises when his telehandler overturned as it was lifting a 650kg piling cage, while located across a sloping driveway.

Resting place of telehandler

Safety information

Telehandlers are generally used with fork tynes. If allowed by the manufacturer, other attachments, such as bale grabs, buckets, work platforms, lifting hooks and crane jibs can be used.

The correct attachment must be used for the task. For example, tynes must not be used to freely suspend a load.

When travelling with a load, the load should be as close to the ground as possible, and the boom retracted.

A freely suspended load affects the stability of a telehandler, due to the raised boom and swinging load. Instability is even greater when working on a slope as the load swings further from the point it is connected to the telehandler.

When lifting a load with a telehandler, make sure:

• you follow the telehandler operating instructions
• the telehandler has the appropriate attachments for the task
• you know the maximum slope for operating the telehandler, and its limitations
• you assess the slope of the ground
• you don’t travel across the slope, unless within the limits of the telehandler
• you use ground support, if required, to maintain stability
• you use percentage deration charts when working on a slope
• you use exclusion zones.

Operator licences

If the telehandler has a capacity greater than three tonne and is configured as a crane, you must have a high-risk work licence – non slewing crane (CN class) or a slewing mobile crane licence.

If the telehandler has a capacity less than three tonne, you must be trained and competent in operating the telehandler and attachments.

To use a slewing telehandler, with a slewing limit greater than five degrees, you must have a high-risk crane licence – C0, C1, C2 or C6.

If the telehandler is used as a work platform, with a boom length of 11 metres or more, you must have a high-risk work licence – elevated work platform (WP class). If the boom is less than 11 metres, you must be trained and competent in operating the telehandler and attachments.

More information

• Guidance note: Telehandlers – Design and licensing
• Code of practice for managing the risk of plant in the workplace
• Working with or around plant safety alert
• Code of practice for moving plant on construction sites
• AS 2550.19 Cranes, hoists and winches - Safe use Part 19 Telescopic handlers

Date of incident: 29 April 2020

At a construction site in Belrose, a 36-year old dogman fell through an open void in a deck as he was instructing a crane operator to lower materials. He fell three metres, impaling his left shoulder on a steel bar.

The void the worker fell through

Safety information

Falling from a height is the number one cause of death and permanent disability in the formwork industry. Most incidents involve open voids on formwork decks and unprotected edges.

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with falls from formwork decks and through open voids.

Make sure:

• all voids have edge protection or are covered, and that covers are securely fixed in place and marked ‘Danger: penetration below’
• you install guardrails and other edge protection, such as perimeter scaffolds and formwork screens, into pre-assembled systems before they’re lifted into position
• leading edges are minimal
• you work below the formwork deck, using temporary work platforms, and limit the distance between joists to 450 mm
• catch platforms are used when other edge protection is not reasonably practicable
• guardrails comply with Australian standards
• access to incomplete decks is prevented.

More information

• Formwork 
• Working at heights 
• Code of practice for managing the risk of falls at workplaces
• Code of practice for construction
• AS 1657: Fixed platforms, stairways and ladders

Date of incident: 23 March 2020

A 24 year old worker suffered broken hips, a dislocated shoulder and a broken jaw when he fell more than 20 metres down a ventilation duct. Falls from heights is the number one killer on NSW construction sites.

The duct opening (left) and the exit point (right)

The investigation

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Safety information

Businesses are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to work health and safety in accordance with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.

You must consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risk of falls from heights.

Make sure you:

• establish and highlight ‘no go’ zones around openings and penetrations during construction work
• immediately make safe any opening or penetration after it is formed using edge protection and or covers that are strong enough to withstand the load of a worker and materials, fix them in place, and mark them so they’re not mistaken for construction material.

Further information

• Code of practice for managing the risk of falls at workplaces
• Code of practice for managing the risk of falls in housing construction
• Code of practice for construction work
• Falls through voids - safety video
• SafeWork pocket guide to construction safety

Date of incident: 19 February 2020

An 80-year-old man fell in the carpark of a supermarket in western NSW after appearing to trip on a piece of plywood, lying at the rear of a ute. The man suffered an injury to the left side of his head and died in hospital a week after the fall.

The site just before incident happened. Note plywood at rear of ute.

Safety information

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with working in public areas.

Make sure you:

• prepare a safe work zone in consultation with the client, principal contractor and subcontractor
• work zones don’t obstruct safe access to public areas
• fence and identify your work area from general public areas
• use appropriate signage
• use alternate pedestrian access, if required, with signs
• materials are contained within your isolated work zone
• good housekeeping practices are maintained in and around the work zone
• serious incidents and near misses are immediately reported to the site controller
• serious incidents are reported to us
• contact ambulance and police, if required.

More information

• Code of practice for managing the risk of falls at workplaces
• Fact sheet: Slips and trips at the workplace.
• Code of practice for construction work
• Code of practice for work environment and facilities

Date of incident: 9 January 2020

A worker died after falling more than two metres through a fibro roof at Wollongong, while attempting to get onto a ladder to get off the roof.

The investigation

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.The investigation

Safety information

Businesses are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in accordance with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with falls.

Before starting work on a roof, you should inspect the condition of sheeting to determine if it can be walked on, such as a skylight, plastic or asbestos cement. Also, inspect the supporting roofing materials and fixings.

Make sure:

• you plan the work to avoid walking on brittle material
• you use an elevated work platform or boom lift, if possible
• you use temporary work platforms, such as crawling boards,
• you use a fall arrest system, such as a harness, with anchor points – train workers how to use it
• you install safety mesh.

When you use a ladder, make sure:

• it’s at a 1:4 ratio
• it’s tied off at the top (and/or footed) and extends at least 900mm past the landing
• you don’t unclip the lanyard until standing on the ladder
• you review your control measures.

Further information

• Code of practice for managing the risk of falls at workplaces
• Falls through skylights and plastic roof sheeting
• Working safely at heights

Download a PDF of this release

Date of incident: 7 January 2020

An apprentice electrician fractured his pelvis and vertebrae after falling more than three metres from a roof while installing solar panels at a construction site in Parklea.

Worker fell from roof off this building.

The investigation

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.The investigation

Safety information

Businesses are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in accordance with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with falls from roofs. Make sure:

• you work from the ground or on a solid construction, wherever possible
• before accessing the roof, you:
  • plan the work and use the right equipment to access the roof
  • discuss the work with all workers
  • check the condition of the roof and type of roofing material
• the roof is dry and clean
• workers have a safe means of access and egress to work areas
• a fall prevention device – temporary work platform, edge protection, guardrails or scaffolding – is used and workers know how to use them
• a fall-restraint or fall-arrest system – harness, lifeline or industrial safety net – is only used when edge protection or work platforms are not reasonably practicable
• you securely cover and mark, or edge protect, all open penetrations in the roof
• ladders are placed at a ratio of 1:4 to the wall, secured at the top and bottom, and extended at least one metre above the roof edge – and you always maintain three points of contact
• you consider using an elevating work platform or scaffolding instead of a ladder
• your workers always use equipment properly.

More information

• Video safety alert – Solar Installation – risks of falls
• Video safety alert – Solar Installation – electrical risks
• Code of practice for managing the risk of falls at workplaces
• Code of practice for managing the risk of falls in housing construction
• Construction falls from heights safety checklist (for principle contractors and site supervisors)

Date of incident: 6 December 2019

A 31-year-old man suffered critical injuries when he fell more than 10 meters through a plastic roof-panel at a school in Croydon.

Worker fell from this roof

The investigation

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.The investigation.

Safety information

Businesses are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in accordance with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risk of falls.

Before starting work on a roof, carry out an inspection to determine:

• the condition of sheeting that shouldn’t be walked on, such as a skylight, plastic or asbestos cement sheeting
• the presence and integrity of safety wire mesh
• the suitability of anchor points.

To determine if surfaces are safe to walk on, check the surrounding material, how it’s fixed and whether it’s brittle.

Make sure you:

• plan the work to avoid walking on brittle material
• work from a solid construction to avoid standing on the roof
• use temporary work platforms, such as crawling boards and ladders
• install barriers, such as guardrails, covers, and warning signs
• install safety mesh
• use a scaffold or scissor/boom lift
• use an adjustable fall-arrest system, such as a harness, with proper anchor points – train workers how to use it.

More information

• Code of practice for managing the risk of falls at workplaces
• Working at heights

Download a PDF of this release

Date of incident: 21 October 2019

While putting pickets and bunting around an excavation on a construction site in Marsden Park, a 30-year-old labourer fell three metres into the trench, suffering fractures to his leg.

_{Construction site}

The investigation

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Safety information

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks of falling into an excavation at a workplace, including:

• developing a plan – in consultation with your workers and before work begins – on managing the risks of falls in and around excavations
• considering barrier fencing to further minimise accidental encroachment – perimeter barriers should be effective
• considering a suitable location for inspection, and access and egress for emergency situations
• consulting with an engineer to determine distances where shoring, benching and battering should be used – and monitor distances, particularly after rain
• using a landing platform – or scaffold towers for big excavations – to ‘in-fill’
• preparing a safe work method statement when there is a risk of falling more than two metres – and ensure workers are inducted and supervised in its implementation
• backfilling or covering the excavation.

Further information

• Code of practice for excavation work
• Code of practice for managing the risk of falls at workplaces
• SafeWork NSW falls from heights action plan

Download a PDF of this release

Date of incident: 29 November 2019

Incident overview

A fire system installer suffered fatal head injuries when he was working on a pipe as part of the installation of a fire-fighting system on the 21st floor of a construction site in Darling Harbour.

SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.SafeWork NSW commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Safety information

Businesses are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in accordance with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.

Businesses must implement ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with working on pressurised pipes, including:

• develop safe systems of work and apply isolation procedures that identify, lock out and tag out all energy sources while work or testing is being carried out. Where reasonably practicable provide engineering controls such as guards and removing workers from the area
• ensure end-caps are installed according to the manufacturer's specifications, including tightening fasteners to the specified torque using appropriate tools (eg calibrated manual torque wrench and correct size sockets)
• piping that is temporarily capped is to be fitted with a pressure gauge to identify any potential stored energy. Provide a vent valve or drain to release pressure prior to work commencing
• all inspections of associated pressure equipment are to be carried out by a competent person in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Further information

• Managing the risks of plant in the workplace
• AS2118.1:2017 Automatic fire sprinkler systems – General systems
• AS2419.1 Fire hydrant installations – System design, installation and commissioning

Download a PDF of this release

Date of incident: 11 September 2019

Incident overview

A 48 year old male worker fell approximately 5.7 metres from the top deck of a mobile scaffold he was dismantling on a residential site in Sydney. He sustained serious head injuries and later died as a result of these injuries. This is the eighth incident information release we've published this year that highlights a serious incident involving a fall from heights or scaffold.

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Safety information

Each year SafeWork NSW responds to incidents where workers are injured falling from a height. Most of these incidents involve falls from scaffolds, roofs, ladders, through open penetrations and from unprotected edges.

Consider reasonably practicable control measures to manage the risk of falling from a mobile scaffold. Ensure:

• The scaffold is suitable for the task and set up on a firm, level foundation.
• A copy of the manufacturer’s assembly instructions is available and instructions are followed.
• All required components are installed, including guardrails, toeboards, diagonal bracing and internal access.
• The components are inspected before assembly and in good condition.
• The workers assembling the scaffold are competent and hold a high risk work scaffolding licence (if a person or object could fall more than four metres from the scaffold deck).
• Site specific risks are identified, communicated to workers and controlled.
• A safe work method statement is prepared for all high-risk construction work Additionally, for mobile scaffolds that remain on the same work site for more than 30 days:
• Regularly inspect assembled scaffolds to determine whether all components are present, correctly installed and in good condition.
• Implement a process for replacing faulty components and/or removing the scaffold from service if found to be defective.

Further information

Refer to the following guidance materials:

• Code of practice: managing the risk of falls at workplaces
• Erecting, altering and dismantling scaffolding
• Safe Work Australia scaffolds and scaffolding work general guide
• Safe Work Australia guide for scaffold inspection and maintenance
• Working at heights
• Pocket guide to construction safety

Download a pdf of this release.

Date of incident: 3 September 2019

While being demolished, a seven-metre brick wall collapsed onto a neighbouring property in the Sydney suburb of Balgowlah. Although no-one was injured, occupants were evacuated and Public Works said the property would need to be demolished because of the damage and unstable structure

The investigation

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Safety information

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with unplanned structural collapse during demolition and excavation work. Before starting demolition work:

• Collect all structural documentation for the building, such as ‘as-built’ structural drawings, geotechnical reports and designer safety reports.
• Get a competent person to give you an engineering report, if structural or geotechnical information isn’t available, if the structure has been damaged or weakened (by fire or deterioration), or if the demolition method will impose substantial stress on the building.
• Get a competent person to check the building for asbestos, make sure it’s removed and get a clearance certificate before starting to demolish.
• Consult with all relevant competent persons during the planning of the demolition works, considering the structural documentation and/or engineering investigation reports.

When planning the works, consider the:

• effect of the proposed demolition methods and sequence on the stability and integrity of the structure being demolished, and any adjacent or adjoining buildings, at all stages of the demolition
• maximum permissible wind speed for partially demolished structures
• plant to be used for the work, including the size, type, position and reach
• ground conditions and how that may affect the use of plant or other demolition methods
• safe access and safe working areas.

Also:

• Tell all relevant people when ‘hold-points’ are required during the demolition sequence, to allow for the inspection and/or testing by competent persons.
• Make sure workers are competent and have received training and instructions on the demolition methods and sequencing.

When undertaking demolition work:

• Make sure the work is supervised by a competent person and done in accordance with the planned methods and sequence.
• Use braces, propping or shoring, to make sure the building and any nearby structures are safe and structurally stable at all times.
• Use exclusions zones to protect workers from falling objects, unplanned structural collapse and moving plant – even when work has stopped for the day, or if the risk of a structural collapse exists.
• Implement fall protection devices if work is done at heights.
• Don’t work from the top of a wall that is being demolished.
• Make sure adequate controls are in place to minimise exposure to silica dust.
• Wear safety glasses, ear muffs, dust masks, gloves and long-sleeved clothing.

When removing entire wall sections using manual demolition methods that incorporate hand tools, such as jackhammers, sledge hammers, and picks, avoid weakening the wall by:

• starting demolition at the top course of bricks using a hammer and chisel
• removing an entire row before starting the next.

Further information

• Demolition work code of practice
• Excavation work code of practice
• Wall safety during excavation work guidance material
• AS 2601-2001: The demolition of structures

Downlown a PDF of this release

Date of incident: 21 August 2019

Incident overview

A 38-year-old man sustained fatal injuries when he fell through a construction site ventilation shaft in Jordan Springs, in western Sydney. The worker was clearing building material from the roof, when he fell down the shaft.

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Safety information

Falls from heights are a major cause of fatalities and serious injuries in NSW workplaces. You must consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risk of falls from heights.

You should:

• Give your workers a safe means of access and egress to work areas.
• Identify penetrations and install covers or guardrails
  • Use covers that are strong enough to withstand the expected load of workers and materials; fix them in place to prevent accidental removal; and mark them so they’re not mistaken for construction material.
  • Guardrails should comply with the AS/NZS 4994 series or AS 1657.
• Identify where penetrations may open once formwork is removed and install covers or guardrails before stripping.
• Put mesh into concrete slabs, as a backup to covers or guardrails.

Further information

• Managing the risk of falls at workplaces code of practice
• Construction work code of practice
• Formwork code of practice
• Formwork and falsework guidance material - SafeWork Australia
• SafeWork pocket guide to construction safety
• Erecting and dismantling formwork -  safety videos
• Falls through voids - safety video
• Specific laws about working safely at heights - WHS Regulation 2017 Part 4.4 Falls

Download a pdf of this release

Date of incident: 19 August 2019

Incident overview

A 32 year old engineer suffered multiple fractures and internal injuries on a road works construction site, when he was crushed between a reversing excavator and a stationary light vehicle. He was transported by ambulance from the Bringelly site to Westmead Hospital where he underwent surgery.

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Safety information

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risk of mobile plant. Use the following risk management process:

• Identify traffic hazards
  • consult with workers and mobile plant operators
  • determine where mobile plant and vehicles are in use
  • determine potential locations and circumstances where people, plant and vehicles could collide – eg. when getting off plant
• Eliminate the risk, if possible
• If elimination isn’t possible, minimise it:
  • use bollards, barriers, safety rails or exclusion zones to separate people from moving plant and vehicles
  • use alarms to warn people of moving plant – eg. reversing alarm, flashing lights
  • plan the site’s layout to minimise plant and vehicle hazards – eg. have drive-through access to minimise reversing, locate loading areas close to storage areas
  • establish traffic flow patterns, develop right of way procedures, use signs and speed limits
  • have dedicated traffic controllers
  • restrict access
  • have mobile phone procedures
  • wear high-visibility garments.
• Document procedures in a traffic management plan
• Train, instruct and supervise your workers on the control measures.

Further information

Refer to the following guidance materials for further information:

• Excavation work code of practice
• Moving plant on construction sites code of practice
• Workplace traffic management guidance material

Download a PDF of this release

Date of incident: 9 July 2019

Incident overview

A 22 year old male worker was undertaking re-roofing activities at a school auditorium in Hunters Hill when he fell approximately 8.5 metres through a penetration. The penetration had been covered with a sheet of black plastic and weighted down with sand bags, following the removal of a roof mounted air vent.The worker was transported to Royal North Shore Hospital where he was treated for a dislocated hip, broken leg and broken elbow.

The investigation

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Safety information

• Determine the presence and condition of non-trafficable sheeting and other brittle roof sheeting such as sky lights, plastic roof sheeting or asbestos cement sheeting.
• Determine the presence and condition of safety mesh.
• When determining whether roof surfaces are safe to walk on, consider the product materials and method of fixing, including any possible deterioration in strength. (Note: products may become brittle and fixings may become less rigid over time.)

Implement these control measures to prevent workers from falling through roofs or skylights:

• Plan the work to avoid accessing unsafe or non-trafficable areas.
• Work from an elevated work platform or boom lift to avoid standing on the roof itself.
• Install temporary work platforms and roof ladders where appropriate (eg crawling boards).
• Install barriers (eg guard rails or covers) that are secured and labelled with warning signs.
• Install safety mesh when installing the roof sheeting.
• Install a fall restraint / arrest system (harness system) that has adequately-installed anchorage points, and train and instruct workers in its use.
• Ensure workers are competent in using fall restraint / fall arrest systems and  are able to assess the need to adjust the length to limit slack as they move.

Apply these measures consistently and review them as work progresses.

Further information

You can also refer to the following guidance materials:

• Our guide to working at heights includes information on managing the risks of falls, including codes of practice and guides to working on roofs.
• Managing the risk of falls in housing construction code of practice.
• Managing risks of falls in a workplace code of practice
• SafeWork pocket guide to construction safety

Download a PDF of this release

Date of incident: 25 May 2019

Incident overview

During a concrete pour at a multi-storey building under construction, the formwork collapsed, placing three workers on the deck at risk of falling up to six metres onto broken reinforcement and support frames. The workers avoided injury by grabbing onto and climbing up the reinforcement mesh and debris.

The investigation

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW has commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Safety information

Businesses must consider all ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risk of a formwork collapse.

These include:

• A ‘competent person’ must design the formwork to retain its shape and withstand loads such as reinforcing, concrete and any associated materials and the dynamic loads imposed by pouring, agitating, the movement of people or environmental factors such as wind and rain.
• Install the formwork in accordance with the design and instructions from the designer - formwork should be rigid, watertight, braced and tied together to maintain position and shape during construction.
• Check variations to the design and ensure they are verified in writing by the designer, engineer or other competent person.
• Don’t mix components from different formwork systems unless a competent person (eg engineer), has authorised the component use.
• Put measures in place (eg bracing), to prevent vertical support feet, on inclined surfaces, from slipping.
• Before loading with weight, ensure a competent person (eg an engineer with experience in structural design -certifying engineer) inspects and certifies completed formwork and its supporting structures meet the design specifications and are structurally sound.
• Place concrete in accordance with the specified sequence and pour rate in order to maintain the stability of the formwork.
• Monitor formwork as it is being loaded to check for signs of potential failure or collapse and to ensure vertical and horizontal movements do not exceed specifications.
• Provide all workers with information and training specific to the formwork system, including:
  • details of the formwork system, tasks, activities and components
  • design intention regarding installation, use, movement, alterations and dismantling
  • control measures to minimise identified risks
  • how to inspect materials used in the formwork system.

Further information

• Formwork information page (templates, videos and other information)
• Working at heights 
• Code of practice for managing the risk of falls in housing construction
• Code of practice for managing the risk of falls at workplaces
• Erection and dismantling formwork webinar
• Formwork and falsework guidance material (Safe Work Australia)
• Code of practice for formwork (Worksafe Queensland)
• Australian standard – Formwork for concrete

Download a PDF of this release

Incident date: 24 May 2019

Event

Crush injury while moving concrete blocks

Location

Lane Cove West

Incident overview

A worker was using an excavator fitted with forklift tines to load large concrete blocks from the ground onto a flatbed truck.

While lifting a concrete block, it moved, pinning another worker (who was helping with the lift) against the truck. The worker received a suspected fractured pelvis.

Incident date: 19 April 2019

Location

Willoughby

Incident overview

A painter working from the side of a house fell from a ladder and broke his ankle. He was taken to hospital for treatment.

The investigation

• SafeWork NSW Inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW has commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Our Prosecution Guidelines (January 2018) outline our approach to prosecutions and Safe Work Australia’s National Compliance and Enforcement Policy provides guidance on their approach
to compliance. These documents set out factors that will be considered in determining the investigative approach and appropriate outcome.

Safety Information

Businesses are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in accordance with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.

Businesses are reminded to consider reasonably practicable control measures to manage the risk of falls from heights, particularly when working on ladders.

It’s best to work from the ground whenever possible and only use ladders for simple access jobs, or for short duration light duty work.

You should also consider alternatives to a ladder, such as scaffolding or an elevated work platform.

If a ladder is the only option, the following precautions can help avoid injury:

• Choose the right ladder for the job. It should meet Australian standards and the load requirements of the job.
• Inspect the ladder for damage before each use.
• Only use a ladder if you are physically-capable of doing so.
• Set up the ladder on a flat, stable surface. If this isn’t possible then use a ladder that includes ladder safety devices like leg levellers, anti-slip gutter guards and stabilisers.
• Always maintain three points of contact when climbing or descending the ladder. This means two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand.
• Only take small items up or down a ladder – never large or heavy items such as building materials. Only carry items that allow you to maintain three points of contact.
• Never lean or reach away from the ladder while using it.
• The combined weight of the person using the ladder and any items or tools should never exceed the working load limit on the ladder.
• A-frame (Step) ladders should only be used when locked in the fully-open position.
• If you’re using a straight ladder or an extension ladder, secure it at the top, bottom or both. If this isn’t possible then have someone hold the ladder in place while in use.
• Straight/extension ladders should be angled at a ratio of 1:4. That is, position the base of the ladder 1 metre away from the structure for every 4 metres of height.
• Do not work from the top two rungs of a ladder, and never straddle the top of an A-frame ladder.
• When climbing down, remain facing the ladder and climb to the bottom rung before stepping off.

Support

Our Coordinator Family Liaison can provide information on counseling and other support to injured workers and to close family members when a relative has died or is seriously injured in the workplace.  Contact us on 13 10 50 or contact@safework.nsw.gov.au

Visit www.coroners.justice.nsw.gov.au for information about the State Coroner.

Further information

You can also refer to the following guidance materials:

• Safe use of ladders video
• Managing the risk of falls in housing construction Code of Practice
• Managing risks of falls in a workplace Code of Practice
• Ladder safety page – Safe Work Australia
• Australian standards related to ladders

About this information release

We have issued this information to draw attention to the occurrence of a serious injury in the painting industry. Investigations are ongoing and further information may be published as it becomes available.

The information contained in this publication is based on knowledge and understanding at the time of writing. Users are reminded of the need to ensure any information upon which they rely is up to date and to check the currency of the information with the appropriate SafeWork NSW officer or the user’s
independent adviser. No conclusions should be drawn from the information in this publication about the cause of the incident or the culpability of any party.

All photographs were taken by SafeWork NSW.

Download a PDF of this release

Incident date: 28 February 2019

Event

Structural collapse

Location

Moorebank

Incident overview

Eight workers were removing an asbestos roof and stacking the asbestos sheets on the existing roof.

The condition of the timber roof structure was unable to support the weight of the stacked sheets.

Part of the roof collapsed and two workers fell with the asbestos sheets to the concrete floor below. The fall was approximately four metres.

The workers were not wearing any safety harnesses at the time of the incident, however there was temporary roof edge protection and roof safety mesh in place.

Activities undertaken at the site include asbestos removal work.

Incident date

12 February 2019

Event

Bucket of excavator being loaded onto a truck hit worker

Location

Macquarie Fields

Incident Overview

While loading an excavator onto the back of a truck, a worker who was strapping down the excavator was struck by a falling object. As the operator of the excavator moved the bucket a smaller bucket inside it toppled out and struck the worker. The worker sustained injuries to his head, back and leg.

The site

The site is located at Macquarie Fields. Work being done at the site includes earth moving and construction work.

The investigation

SafeWork NSW Inspectors responded to the incident.

Our Prosecution Guidelines (January 2018) outline our approach to prosecutions and Safe Work Australia’s National Compliance and Enforcement Policy provides guidance on their approach to compliance. These documents set out factors that will be considered in determining the investigative approach and appropriate outcome.

Safety Information

Businesses are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in line with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017. Each year SafeWork NSW responds to incidents where workers have been injured while using earth moving equipment. Workers in the construction industry are commonly injured; however any worker using earth moving machinery is at risk. Businesses are reminded to consider reasonably practicable control measures to manage the risk of injury while operating, or working near, earth moving machinery. Clear, established lines of communication between the operators of plant and nearby workers is vital, and should be implemented with control measures such as barriers, exclusion zones and traffic management. Workers should be trained and supervised when working closely with plant, and all maintenance should be done by competent, accredited people.

Further information

Please refer to the following guidance materials:
Excavation work Code of Practice
Moving Plant on Construction Sites: Code of Practice
Safety Alert – Working with or around mobile plant

About this information release

We have issued this information to draw attention to the occurrence of a serious injury in the earth moving industry. Investigations are ongoing and further information may be published as it becomes available. The information contained in this publication is based on knowledge and understanding at the time of writing. Users are reminded of the need to ensure any information upon which they rely is up to date and to check the currency of the information with the appropriate SafeWork NSW officer or the user’s independent adviser. No conclusions should be drawn from the information in this publication about the cause of the incident or the culpability of any party.

All photographs were taken by SafeWork NSW.

Download a PDF of this release

Incident date

5 February 2019

Event

Fall from heights landing on reinforcing bar

Location

Gosford

Incident Overview

A 32 year old male worker was doing formwork at a multi-storey construction site in Gosford and fell approximately 2.8 metres. He landed on a reinforcing bar and his leg was impaled.

The site

The site is located at Gosford. Work being done at the site includes formwork for a multi-storey residential construction.

The investigation

• SafeWork NSW Inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW has commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Our Prosecution Guidelines (January 2018) outline our approach to prosecutions and Safe Work Australia’s National Compliance and Enforcement Policy provides guidance on their approach
to compliance. These documents set out factors that will be considered in determining the investigative approach and appropriate outcome.

Safety Information

Businesses are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in line with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017 .

Each year SafeWork NSW responds to incidents where workers have been injured as a result of falls from heights. Most of these incidents involve open penetrations on formwork decks and unprotected edges/voids.

Workers in the construction industry are most commonly injured; however any worker working at heights is at risk.

Businesses are reminded to consider reasonably practicable control measures to manage the risk of falls from heights by ensuring open penetrations are covered and covers are secured.

Further information

Please refer to the following guidance materials:

• Managing the risk of falls at workplaces COP
• Construction work COP
• Formwork COP
• SafeWork Pocket Guide to Construction Safety
• Safework Australia Formwork Guide

About this information release

We have issued this information to draw attention to the occurrence of a fatality/serious injury/serious incident in the construction industry. Investigations are ongoing and further information may be published as it becomes available.

The information contained in this publication is based on knowledge and understanding at the time of writing. Users are reminded of the need to ensure any information upon which they rely is up to date and to check the currency of the information with the appropriate SafeWork NSW officer or the user’s
independent adviser. No conclusions should be drawn from the information in this publication about the cause of the incident or the culpability of any party.

All photographs were taken by SafeWork NSW.

Download a PDF of this release

The site is located at Gosford. Work being done at the site includes formwork for a multi-storey residential construction.

The investigation

• SafeWork NSW Inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW has commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Our Prosecution Guidelines (January 2018) outline our approach to prosecutions and Safe Work Australia’s National Compliance and Enforcement Policy provides guidance on their approach to compliance. These documents set out factors that will be considered in determining the investigative approach and appropriate outcome.

Safety Information

Businesses are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in line with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017 .

Each year SafeWork NSW responds to incidents where workers have been injured as a result of falls from heights. Most of these incidents involve open penetrations on formwork decks and unprotected edges/voids.

Workers in the construction industry are most commonly injured; however any worker working at heights is at risk.

Businesses are reminded to consider reasonably practicable control measures to manage the risk of falls from heights by ensuring open penetrations are covered and covers are secured.

Further information

Please refer to the following guidance materials:

• Managing the risk of falls at workplaces COP
• Construction work COP
• Formwork COP
• SafeWork Pocket Guide to Construction Safety
• Safework Australia Formwork Guide

About this information release

We have issued this information to draw attention to the occurrence of a fatality/serious injury/serious incident in the construction industry. Investigations are ongoing and further information may be published as it becomes available.

The information contained in this publication is based on knowledge and understanding at the time of writing. Users are reminded of the need to ensure any information upon which they rely is up to date and to check the currency of the information with the appropriate SafeWork NSW officer or the user’s independent adviser. No conclusions should be drawn from the information in this publication about the cause of the incident or the culpability of any party.

All photographs were taken by SafeWork NSW.

Download a PDF of this release

Incident date

12 December 2018

Event

Fall from height

Location

Denham Court

Incident Overview

A worker fell from a height while installing roof & guttering on a house in Denham Court, sustaining hand and shoulder injuries.

SafeWork NSW and NSW Police responded to the incident to investigate and make the site safe.

The site

The site is located at Denham Court. Activities being done on the site included the construction of a two storey home. The site is under the control of a principal contractor. A sub-contractor had been engaged to install box guttering and roofing.

The investigation

SafeWork NSW Inspectors responded to the incident.

Our Prosecution Guidelines outline our approach to prosecutions and Safe Work Australia’s National Compliance and Enforcement Policy provides
guidance on our approach to compliance. These documents set out factors that will be considered in determining the investigative approach and appropriate outcome.

Safety Information

Businesses are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in line with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.

Each year SafeWork NSW responds to incidents where workers have been exposed to risks associated withfalls from heights. Most of these incidents involve unprotected edges or voids.

Businesses are reminded to consider reasonable and practicable control measures to manage the risk of falls from heights including:

• Remove the need to work from heights where possible;
• Use a suitable working platform such as scaffolds, boom lifts or scissor lifts;
• Provide adequate edge protection by using guardrails or perimeter scaffolding;
• Ensure scaffolds are inspected every 30 days and a handover certificate is issued;
• Prevent people accessing incomplete scaffolds;
• Ensure penetrations/voids are covered and clearly marked or have edge protection
• Provide workers with safe means of accessing and exiting work areas;
• Ensure ladders are secured and extend 1m past the landing; and
• Only use fall restraint or fall arrest systems when edge protection or work platforms are not reasonably practicable.

Further information

Please refer to the following guidance materials:

• Safe Work Australia's - formwork and falsework guideance material
• Managing the risk of falls at workplaces Code of Practice
• Maanging the risk of falls in housing construction Code of Practice
• SafeWork Pocket Guide to Construction Safety

About this information release

SafeWork NSW has issued this information to draw attention to the occurrence of a serious injury in the construction industry. Investigations are ongoing and further information may be published as it becomes available.

The information contained in this publication is based on knowledge and understanding at the time of writing. Users are reminded of the need to ensure any information upon which they rely is up to date and to check the currency of the information with the appropriate officer of SafeWork NSW or the user’s
independent adviser. No conclusions should be drawn from the information in this publication about the cause of the incident or the culpability of any party.

All photographs were taken by SafeWork NSW.

Download a PDF of this release

Incident date

17 November 2018

Event

Fall from heights through open penetration/void

Location

Green Valley

Incident overview

A 29-year-old male air conditioning mechanic fell from the first floor of a residential construction site through a stair void. The worker suffered fatal head and neck injuries.

The site is located at Green Valley. Activities undertaken at the site include the construction of a two-story residence.

The investigation

SafeWork NSW Inspectors responded to the incident.

SafeWork NSW has commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Our Prosecution Guidelines (January 2018) outline our approach to prosecutions and Safe Work Australia’s National Compliance and Enforcement Policy
provides guidance on our approach to compliance. These documents set out factors that will be considered in determining the investigative approach and appropriate outcome.

Safety Information

Businesses are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in accordance with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.

Each year SafeWork NSW respond to incidents where workers have been killed or seriously injured from falls from heights. Many of these incidents involve falling through penetrations.

Workers in the construction industry are most commonly injured from falling; however, any worker, working at height is at risk.

Businesses are reminded to consider reasonably practicable control measures to manage the risk of falls.

Before commencing work a business must:

• provide edge protection on all open edges where a worker can fall e.g. guardrails comprising top-rail, mid-rail and toe boards.
• cover stair voids with covers designed to withstand likely impact and static loads and fixed to prevent any dislodgement or accidental removal.
• provide workers with safe means of access and egress to work areas.

Further information

Please refer to the following guidance materials:

• Managing the risk of falls at workplaces Code of Practice
• Managing the risk of falls in housing construction Code of Practice
• SafeWork Pocket Guide to Construction Safety

About this information release

We have issued this information to draw attention to the occurrence of a fatality in the Construction industry. Investigations are ongoing and further information may be published as it becomes available.

The information contained in this publication is based on knowledge and understanding at the time of writing. Users are reminded of the need to ensure any information upon which they rely is up to date and to check the currency of the information with the appropriate SafeWork NSW officer or the user’s
independent adviser. No conclusions should be drawn from the information in this publication about the cause of the incident or the culpability of any party.

All photographs were taken by SafeWork NSW.

Download a PDF of this release

Incident date

6 November 2018

Event

Electric Shock

Location

Guildford

Incident Overview

A 36-year-old worker was installing a steel reinforcement bar into a wall cavity on a construction site. While attempting to position the reinforcement bar to insert into the cavity, it extended past the edge of the scaffold and touched high voltage powerlines. The worker received serious injuries.

SafeWork NSW, NSW Police Force and other Emergency Services responded to the incident.

The site is located at Guildford. Work being done at the site involves the construction of a low-rise apartment building.

The investigation

SafeWork NSW Inspectors responded to the incident.

Our Prosecution Guidelines outline our approach to prosecutions and Safe Work Australia’s National Compliance and Enforcement Policy provides guidance on our approach to compliance. These documents set out factors that will be considered in determining the investigative approach and appropriate outcome.

Safety Information

Businesses are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in accordance with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.

Each year SafeWork NSW responds to many incidents where workers are seriously injured from coming in to contact with or working too close to overhead power lines where a ‘flashover or arc’ occurs. Workers can come in to contact with electric lines directly or indirectly through materials being handled or plant being operated near overhead power lines. Regardless of the voltage, which can be as high as 500,000 volts or as low as 230 volts, the consequences can be catastrophic.

Businesses and workers in the construction industry are reminded of the increased risks when working near overhead power lines. Businesses must ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that no person, plant or thing at the workplace comes within an unsafe distance of an overhead power line. If it is not reasonably practicable to ensure the safe distance of a person, plant or thing from an overhead or underground power line, the person conducting the business or undertaking at the workplace must make sure that:

1. a risk assessment is done in relation to the proposed work, and
2. control measures that are put in place are consistent with:
   1. the risk assessment, and
   2. if an electricity supply authority is responsible for the power line, any requirements of the authority.

Note the requirements in the AS/NZS 4576 of a 4 metre approach distance for metallic scaffolding used near overhead power lines – where any scaffolding, hand held tools, equipment or materials may come within this 4 metre approach distance, a hazard identification and written risk assessment must be undertaken and measures undertaken to control risks to persons.

Further information

Please refer to the following guidance materials:

• Code of Practice: Work Near Overhead Power Lines
• Erecting, altering and dismantling scaffolding - Part 1: Prefabricated steel modular scaffolding

About this information release

We have issued this information to draw attention to the occurrence of a serious injuryserious injuryserious injury in the construction industry. Investigations are ongoing and more information may be published as it becomes available.

The information contained in this publication is based on knowledge and understanding at the time of writing. Users are reminded of the need to make sure any information upon which they rely is up to date and to check the currency of the information with the appropriate SafeWork NSW officer or the user’s independent adviser. No conclusions should be drawn from the information in this publication about the cause of the incident or the culpability of any party.

All photographs were taken by SafeWork NSW.

Download a PDF of this release

Incident date: 29 October 2018

Event

Prefabricated concrete panel fall on construction site

Location

Bexley

Incident Overview

A 21 tonne, right angle shaped, prefabricated concrete panel was being lifted by a tower crane and a mobile crane in a dual lift. The panel was approximately 9.3 metres long by 2.5 metres wide.

As the panel was being lifted into position the lifting equipment and/or lifting point failed and the panel suddenly dropped. The reason for the failure is not yet known.

A hoist rope was damaged in the incident and the cranes were subjected to shock loading. Debris from the incident landed in a public area next to the site. There were no reported injuries.

SafeWork NSW, NSW Police Force, Fire and Rescue NSW and Public Works Engineers responded to the incident.

The site

The site is in Bexley. Work being done at the site is part of the West Connex motorway project.

The investigation

SafeWork NSW Inspectors responded to the incident.

SafeWork NSW has commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Our Prosecution Guidelines outline our approach to prosecutions and Safe Work Australia’s National Compliance and Enforcement Policy provides guidance on our approach to compliance. These documents set out factors that will be considered in determining the
investigative approach and appropriate outcome.

Safety Information

Persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBUs) are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in accordance with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.

Principal Contactors and other businesses working in construction have additional and specific duties under Work Health and Safety (WHS) legislation. Those duties extend to the care of both workers and others – including members of the public. Businesses need to provide and maintain safe plant and structures
such as lifts and cranes, and risks related to structures collapsing or objects falling need to be managed..

The loads applied to prefabricated concrete elements during lifting depend on many factors. These include the orientation of the concrete element, the size and shape of the element and its centre of gravity, the location and capacity of the lifting points, and the lifting equipment and method used.

The force applied to a crane and lifting equipment can change a lot during a lift. An erection plan is needed to make sure the crane, lifting equipment and concrete element can withstand the applied loads.

The erection plan should be developed in consultation with relevant contractors, including the concrete element prefabricator. It should include drawings that have details on the types and locations of all lifting / bracing / fixing inserts and any component reinforcing.

Documents about the erection plan should be available on site. They should specify the erection sequence and orientation, the correct lifting points, clutches and the rigging details/configuration.

Lifting inserts and clutches must be compatible with each other - seek advice from the item manufacturer if you are unsure. Cranes with sufficient size to use the specified rigging and sling angles, and capacity to handle the calculated load share, must be used.

Before lifting anything, make sure the concrete has reached the required strength and the lift can be done as described in the erection plan. Do not deviate from the erection plan, without agreement of the erection designer.

Further information

Please refer to the following guidance materials:

• AS 3850.1-2015 Prefabricated concrete elements - General requirements.
• AS 3850.2-2015 Prefabricated concrete elements - Building construction.
• AS 1379 - 2007 Specification and supply of concrete (Guidance on sampling and testing systems for concrete)
• Code of Practice – Construction Work
• Code of Practice – Safe Design of Structures

About this information release

We have issued this information to draw attention to the occurrence of a serious incident in the construction industry. Investigations are ongoing and further information may be published as it becomes available.

The information contained in this publication is based on knowledge and understanding at the time of writing. Users are reminded of the need to ensure any information upon which they rely is up to date and to check the currency of the information with the appropriate SafeWork NSW officer or the user’s
independent adviser. No conclusions should be drawn from the information in this publication about the cause of the incident or the culpability of any party.

All photographs were taken by SafeWork NSW.

Download a PDF of this release

Incident date

11 September 2018

Event

Hit by falling object

Location

Seven Hills

Incident overview

A 10 tonne prefabricated concrete panel approximately 12m in length and 2.1m in width was being lifted off a truck using a crane and was to be rotated mid-air and moved into position as part of constructing a commercial premises. However, as it was being lifted it broke into pieces, striking and injuring
a 50 year old worker assisting with the lift.

NSW Police and Ambulance responded to the incident and the worker was conveyed to hospital and received treatment for his injuries.

The site

The site is located at Seven Hills. The activity being undertaken at the time was the construction of a commercial premises using prefabricated concrete panels. The site is under the control of a principal contractor with several sub-contractors working onsite.

The investigation

SafeWork NSW Inspectors responded to the incident.

Our Prosecution Guidelines outline our approach to prosecutions and Safe Work Australia’s National Compliance and Enforcement Policy provides guidance on their approach to compliance.
These documents set out factors that will be considered in determining the investigative approach and appropriate outcome.

Safety information

Businesses are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in accordance with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.

Tilt-up and pre-cast panels must be designed for both erection loads and for loadings experienced when they make up part of the completed building or structure (i.e. ‘in-service loads’). The loads applied to the panel during lifting off the casting bed, transport, handling, erection, and while
the panels are temporarily braced are different from loads applied when part of the final structure. The erection designer(s) must therefore design the panel for all types of loading.  Erection crews must then ensure panels are lifted and braced in the manner specified by the erection designer(s).

Tilt-up panels should only be lifted when the concrete has cured long enough to attain the minimum required concrete strength specified by the lifting insert supplier. The minimum concrete strength for most proprietary brand lifting inserts is 25 MPa. Some inserts may require a higher
strength than 25 MPa.

Further information

Please refer to the following guidance materials:

• AS 3850.1-2015 Prefabricated concrete elements - Part 1: General requirements.
• AS 3850.2-2015 Prefabricated concrete elements - Part 2: Building construction.
• Guidance on sampling and testing systems for concrete is provided in AS 1379 - Specification and supply of concrete.

About this information release

We have issued this information to draw attention to the occurrence of a fatality/serious injury/serious incident in the prefabricated concrete industry. Investigations are ongoing and further information may be published as it becomes available.

The information contained in this publication is based on knowledge and understanding at the time of writing. Users are reminded of the need to ensure any information upon which they rely is up to date and to check the currency of the information with the appropriate SafeWork NSW officer or the user’s
independent adviser. No conclusions should be drawn from the information in this publication about the cause of the incident or the culpability of any party.

_{All photographs were taken by SafeWork NSW.}

Download a PDF of this release

Incident date

11 September 2018

Event

Fall through penetration

Location

Castle Hill

Incident overview

A 28-year-old bricklayer was undertaking work in a plant room of a major tunnel and civil infrastructure works project.  He stood on the temporary platform covering a penetration which has shifted under his weight causing him to fall 7.1 metres to the concourse level below. The worker sustained a broken left femur, tibia, fibula and a broken left shoulder.

SafeWork NSW and NSW Ambulance responded to the incident and the worker was conveyed to hospital and received treatment for his injuries.

The site is located at Castle Hill. Activities undertaken at the site include the construction of twin tunnels that will form part of the Sydney Metro Northwest automated rail system. The site is under the control of a principal contractor that is under the Comcare scheme with multiple sub-contractors
working onsite. The worker was an employee of a NSW bricklaying company subcontracted to undertake the bricklaying works.

The investigation

SafeWork NSW Inspectors responded to the incident.

SafeWork NSW has commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Our Prosecution Guidelines outline our approach to prosecutions and Safe Work Australia’s National Compliance and Enforcement Policy provides guidance on their approach to compliance.
These documents set out factors that will be considered in determining the investigative approach and appropriate outcome.

Safety information

Businesses and workers are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in accordance with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.

Each year SafeWork NSW respond to incidents where workers have been killed or seriously injured from falls from a height. Many of these incidents involve falling through a penetration.

Workers in the Construction Industry are commonly at risk of falling from height; however, any worker working at height is at risk of falling.

Businesses are reminded to consider reasonably practicable control measures to manage the risk of falling from heights and working near penetrations including;

• Installing barriers, such as guard rails or covers, that are secured and labelled with warning signs in areas where penetrations are present
• Covering and marking, or installing guardrails around penetrations/voids
• Providing workers with safe means of access and egress to work areas
• Conducting a risk assessment prior to working near penetrations

Further information

Please refer to the following guidance materials:

• Managing the Risk of falls at Workplaces - Code of Practice
• Trapdoors and Penetration Covers in Construction (QLD Safety Alert)
• Prosecution results following Construction falls
• SafeWork NSW guide to working safely at heights 
• Construction work code of practice 2014

About this information release

We have issued this information to draw attention to the occurrence of a serious injury in the construction industry. Investigations are ongoing and further information may be published as it becomes available.

The information contained in this publication is based on knowledge and understanding at the time of writing. Users are reminded of the need to ensure any information upon which they rely is up to date and to check the currency of the information with the appropriate SafeWork NSW officer or the user’s
independent adviser. No conclusions should be drawn from the information in this publication about the cause of the incident or the culpability of any party.

All photographs were taken by SafeWork NSW.

Download a PDF of this release

Incident date

10 September 2018

Event

Fall from height through roof

Location

Newcastle East

Incident Overview

A 26 year-old labourer was on the roof of a home helping remove asbestos cement corrugated roof sheeting when one of the sheets gave way and he fell approximately 4 metres.

The fall-arrest system used did not prevent the worker from hitting the wooden floor below. The worker sustained a suspected broken wrist.

SafeWork NSW and NSW Ambulance responded to the incident and the worker was taken to hospital and received treatment for his injuries.

The site is located at Newcastle East. The activity being undertaken at the time was the removal of asbestos roof sheeting on a residential dwelling. The site is under the control of a principal contractor with a sub-contractor engaged to undertake demolition and asbestos removal at the site.

The investigation

SafeWork NSW Inspectors responded to the incident

Our Prosecution Guidelines outline our approach to prosecutions and Safe Work Australia’s National Compliance and Enforcement Policy provides guidance on their approach to compliance.
These documents set out factors that will be considered in determining the investigative approach and appropriate outcome.

Safety Information

Businesses and workers are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in accordance with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.

Each year SafeWork NSW respond to incidents where workers have died or been seriously injured from falls from heights. Many of these incidents involve falling through roof material. Asbestos cement roof sheeting is known to become brittle with age.

Businesses are reminded to consider reasonable and practicable control measures to manage the risk of falls.

Before starting work on an existing roof, carry out an inspection (from below) to determine:

• the presence and condition of non-trafficable sheeting such asbestos cement sheeting and other brittle roof sheeting such as sky lights or plastic roof sheeting
• for residential properties, the spacing and condition of roof purlins or trusses, including any gaps in purlins
• for commercial properties, the presence and condition of safety mesh.

When determining whether roofs are safe to walk on, consider that product materials may become brittle with age and fixings may become less rigid over time.

Control measures to prevent a person from falling through a non-trafficable roof or skylight include:

• plan to work from below whenever possible
• plan the work to avoid accessing unsafe or non-trafficable areas
• work from an elevated work platform or boom lift to avoid standing on the roof itself
• install temporary work platforms (crawling boards) and roof ladders as appropriate
• install barriers (such as guard rails or covers) that are secured and labelled with warning signs
• install safety mesh when installing the roof sheeting
• install a fall arrest system (harness system) which has adequately-installed anchorage points, along with training and instruction in the use.
• ensure workers using an adjustable length (traveller) fall arrest system are competent and aware that the rope line is to have minimal slack, to protect then in the event they fall through, when walking or working on roofs and are aware of the pendulum effect when using single anchorage points.

Ensure the selected control measures are being consistently applied and review the control measures as work progresses.

Further information

Refer to the following guidance materials:

• Our guide to working safely at heights includes information on managing the risks of falls, including codes of practice and guides to working on roofs.
• Safe work on roofs - Part 1: commercial and industrial buildings code of practice
• Safety Alert - Falls through skylights and plastic roof sheeting
• Australian Standard series AS/NZS 4994 – Temporary edge protection
• Australian Standard AS/NZS 1891.4 Industrial fall-arrest systems and devices Part 4: Selection use and maintenance
• Incident information releases, including Fall through plastic roof sheeting 23 August 2018

About this information release

We have issued this information to draw attention to the occurrence of a serious incident in the roofing industry. Investigations are ongoing and further information may be published as it becomes available.

The information contained in this publication is based on knowledge and understanding at the time of writing. Users are reminded of the need to ensure any information upon which they rely is up to date and to check the currency of the information with the appropriate SafeWork NSW officer or the user’s
independent adviser. No conclusions should be drawn from the information in this publication about the cause of the incident or the culpability of any party.

All photographs were taken by SafeWork NSW.

Download a PDF of this release

Incident date

07 September 2018

Event

Scaffold Collapse

Location

Bronte

Incident overview

Partially dismantled 4-storey scaffolding on a multi-story residential construction site in Bronte has fallen away from the building and onto the neighbouring unit complex.

No residents were in the neighbouring property at the time of the incident. There were no injuries reported.

The residents were provided with temporary accommodation and a section of the road was closed while repair work occur.

SafeWork NSW, NSW Police and the State Emergency Services responded to the incident and Engineers were on site to make the site safe.

The site is located at Bronte. Activities undertaken at the site include the dismantling of scaffolding. The site is under the control of a principal contractor with the activity being undertaken by a sub-contractor.

The investigation

SafeWork NSW Inspectors responded to the incident.

SafeWork NSW has commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Our Prosecution Guidelines outline our approach to prosecutions and Safe Work Australia’s National Compliance and Enforcement Policy provides guidance on their approach to compliance.
These documents set out factors that will be considered in determining the investigative approach and appropriate outcome.

Safety information

Businesses are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in accordance with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.

Each year SafeWork NSW respond to incidents where the safety of workers, or nearby people, has been at risk from falling scaffolding.

Many of these incidents involve scaffolds with containment sheeting (eg shadecloth or mesh) which may place extra weight on a scaffold, particularly in bad weather when wind and rain can place additional live loads the materials.

A scaffold collapse not only puts workers lives at risk, but puts the public at significant risk of being hit by falling objects.

Businesses are reminded to implement control measures to manage the risk of scaffold collapse, such as ensuring:

• the design of the scaffold installation considers wind load from the scaffold containment sheeting
• provision and maintenance of sufficient ties of adequate strength for the loads, including wind load
• regular inspection of scaffold ties to check they are not modified or altered by unauthorised people (eg finishing trades who may loosen, relocate or remove ties to gain access to walls and openings)
• scaffolds are not left in a state of weakness when installing or dismantling the scaffolds (eg removing returns as they act like ties, or removing ties in preparation for dismantling).

Further information

Please refer to the following guidance materials:

• Australian Standard AS 1576 Series
• Scaffolding collapse safety alert
• SafeWork NSW Erecting, altering and dismantling scaffolding - part-1 - prefabricated steel modular scaffolding
• Safe Work Australia Scaffolds and scaffolding work general guide
• Safe Work Australia Guide for scaffold inspection and maintenance

About this information release

We have issued this information to draw attention to the occurrence of a serious incident in the construction industry. Investigations are ongoing and further information may be published as it becomes available.

The information contained in this publication is based on knowledge and understanding at the time of writing. Users are reminded of the need to ensure any information upon which they rely is up to date and to check the currency of the information with the appropriate SafeWork NSW officer or the user’s  independent adviser. No conclusions should be drawn from the information in this publication about the cause of the incident or the culpability of any party.

All photographs were taken by SafeWork NSW.

Download a PDF of this release

Incident date

5 September 2018

Event

Fall from form deck

Location

Blackbutt in Shellharbour

Incident overview

A 40-year-old steel fixer was subcontracted to work on steel pre-fabricated walls.

He was standing on a piece of plywood, on top of laid formwork, when it gave way and he’s fallen 2 to 2.5 metres to the floor below. The worker struck his head and sustained bruising to his left arm and grazing to his right arm.

SafeWork NSW, NSW Police and NSW Ambulance responded to the incident and the worker was taken to hospital for treatment for his injuries.

The site is located at Blackbutt in Shellharbour. The activity being undertaken is the construction of a multi-story residential building. The site is under the control of a principal contractor with a subcontractor engaged to undertake the formwork decking on site.

The investigation

SafeWork NSW Inspectors responded to the incident.

Our Prosecution Guidelines outline our approach to prosecutions and Safe Work Australia’s National Compliance and Enforcement Policy provides guidance on their approach to compliance. These documents set out factors that will be considered in determining the investigative approach and appropriate outcome.

Safety information

Businesses are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in accordance with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.

Each year SafeWork NSW respond to incidents where workers have fallen from a height. Many of these incidents involve formwork.

Workers in the construction industry are most commonly injured however, any worker working from heights is at risk.

Businesses are reminded to consider reasonable and practicable control measures to manage the risk of falls from heights including:

• The PCBU must deem the working deck is complete before allowing other workers to access the deck. the deck
• Installing barriers with signage in areas where formwork is incomplete
• Covering and marking, or installing guardrails around penetrations/voids Providing workers with safe means of access and egress to work areas.

Further information

Please refer to the following guidance materials:

• Formwork and falsework guidance material
• Incident information releases
• Managing the risk of falls at workplaces COP
• SafeWork NSW formwork webpage
• Managing the risk of falls in housing construction COP
• SafeWork pocket guide to construction safety

About this information release

We have issued this information to draw attention to the occurrence of a serious injury in the construction industry. Investigations are ongoing and further information may be published as it becomes available.

The information contained in this publication is based on knowledge and understanding at the time of writing. Users are reminded of the need to ensure any information upon which they rely is up to date and to check the currency of the information with the appropriate SafeWork NSW officer or the user’s independent adviser. No conclusions should be drawn from the information in this publication about the cause of the incident or the culpability of any party.

All photographs were taken by SafeWork NSW.

Download a PDF of this release

Incident date

Event

Location

Incident overview

Safety information

Incident date

3 August 2018

Event

Fall from height on construction site

Location

Church Street, Parramatta

Incident overview

A 62-year-old worker was undertaking formwork at a Parramatta construction site. He was placing a joist onto the falsework bearers below when he fell approximately 3.7 metres from the ply deck he was standing on to the deck below. He sustained a broken rib and a laceration to the back of his head.

SafeWork NSW and NSW Police responded to the incident. The worker was conveyed to hospital and received treatment for his injuries.

The site

The investigation

SafeWork NSW Inspectors responded to the incident.

Safety information

Further information

About this information release

Incident date

Event

Location

Incident overview

The site

The investigation

SafeWork NSW Inspectors responded to the incident.

Safety Information

Further information

About this information release

Incident date

6 July 2018

Event

Falling object from construction site

Location

Princes Highway at Rockdale

Overview

During the demolition of an existing commercial premises, parts of the front façade fell onto the pedestrian footpath, scattering debris onto the footpath and the Princes Highway. The incident occurred during strong winds. As a result, two northbound lanes of the highway were closed. There were no reported injuries.

SafeWork NSW, NSW Police, Fire and Rescue and Public Works Engineers responded to the incident.

The site

The site is located on Princes Highway at Rockdale. The site is currently undergoing demolition and is under the control of a principal contractor. A sub-contractor had also been engaged to carry out demolition works on the site. At the time of the incident, the front façade and partial return/buttress walls were the only building elements yet to be demolished. The front façade consisted of brickwork, and glass windows and doors.

The investigation

• SafeWork NSW Inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW has commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

SafeWork NSW’s Prosecution Guidelines outlines the Regulator’s approach to prosecutions and SafeWork Australia’s National Compliance and Enforcement Policy provides guidance on the Regulator’s approach to compliance. These documents set out factors that will be considered in determining the investigative approach and appropriate outcome.

Safety information

Businesses are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in accordance with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.

Principal contractors and other businesses working in construction and/or demolition have additional and specific duties under the WHS legislation. Those duties extend to both workers and others – including members of the public, and require businesses to ensure the risks associated with unplanned structural collapse and/or falling debris are managed so far as is reasonably practicable in accordance with the legislation.

Businesses are required to implement reasonably practicable measures to the eliminate or minimise the risks associated with unplanned structural collapse or falling debris by ensuring:

• the demolition method and sequencing is planned in consultation with the building/structure designers, or if it is not reasonably practicable to do so, in consultation with appropriately competent persons eg structural engineers.
• the building or structure to be demolished and all its components are maintained in a safe and structurally stable condition at all times until completion of the project. Temporary braces, propping, shoring or guys may need to be added to ensure that stability of the structure is maintained.
• external factors that may impact on the structural integrity of the building or structure are considered and the associated risks are managed eg vibrations from demolition activities, wind, water pooling or egress around footings or supports.
• adequate protection to members of the public are provided and maintained by installing, for example, hoarding, overhead protective structures, heavy duty scaffolding and/or or containment screening; or by implementing road closures and/or specified exclusion zones.
• measures installed to provide public protection are designed and constructed to withstand the applicable loads (consultation with an appropriately competent person may be required).
• measures installed to provide public protection are in place prior to commencing associated demolition works.
• all control measures are monitored by a competent person to assess the on-going suitability of the demolition method and sequencing and to identify signs of structural weakening e.g. movement or cracking.

Further information

Please refer to the following guidance materials:

• SafeWork NSW Code of Practice Demolition work
• Australian Standards AS 2601-2001 The demolition of structures
• Safety alert Dangers from masonry walls on construction or demolition sites
• SafeWork NSW Code of Practice Overhead protective structures

About this information release

SafeWork NSW has issued this information to draw attention to the occurrence of a serious incident in the construction industry. Investigations are ongoing and further information may be published as it becomes available.

The information contained in this publication is based on knowledge and understanding at the time of writing. Users are reminded of the need to ensure any information upon which they rely is up to date and to check the currency of the information with the appropriate officer of SafeWork NSW or the user’s independent adviser. No conclusions should be drawn from the information in this publication about the cause of the incident or the culpability of any party.

All photographs were taken by SafeWork NSW.

Download a PDF of this release

A 34-year-old worker was killed after being crushed between two steel girders. As one of the girders, nearly 30 metres long and weighing almost nine tonnes, was being lifted by chain slings, it shifted, crushing the worker.

The two girders and bridge crane involved in the incident

Safety information

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with lifting large or heavy loads.

Before any lift, make sure:

• the licensed dogger or rigger determine a safe lifting method, by calculating mass and selecting lifting equipment and slinging techniques
• the plant, attachments and lifting gear have been designed for that specific task, and inspected and maintained according to manufacturer’s recommendations
• the attachments and lifting gear are appropriate for the item of plant, and properly fitted
• exclusion zones are established and maintained to protect everybody from falling objects and moving plant
• all crane operators and users of lifting equipment are appropriately trained and correctly licensed (where required).

During the lift, make sure:

• no-one places themselves within the vicinity of a suspended load
• there are no obstructions and you can always see the load during the lift - if the load is outside your view, the lifting process must be directed by a licensed dogger or rigger
• all loads are lifted, carried and stored in a manner that ensures the safety of the plant, and the security of the load and any attachments.

More information

• Code of practice for managing the risks of plant in the workplace
• Code of practice on how to manage work health and safety risks

Date of incident: 5 May 2020

A 31-year-old worker was killed when his forklift tipped over and crushed him, as he was driving down a driveway.

This is the second forklift fatality in NSW during the past five months.

Safety information

Before operating a forklift, you:

• must hold a current high-risk work licence (class LF), be familiar with the operating controls and know the limitations of the forklift
• should always complete a pre-start safety check, such as:
  • fluid levels (hydraulic oil, brake fluid and water)
  • seat and seat belts
  • steering, brakes, park brake, lights and operating controls
  • hydraulic operations, such as lift, tilt and sideshift
  • tyre condition and pressures (if applicable)
  • fork tynes and attachments
  • load-rating plate and safety decals
  • test drive and function tests.
• should check that regular maintenance and servicing has been carried out
• must not be not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or suffering from fatigue, injury or illness,

When operating a forklift, you must:

• wear a seatbelt, unless a risk assessment indicates it’s not safe to do so and other controls prevent you being ejected from the forklift
• drive at a safe speed, noting site speed limits, load size, ground and weather conditions
• avoid aggressive driving, braking and steering, especially when turning
• never turn sideways on ramps or other sloping surfaces
• avoid driving on an incline with the load facing downhill
• never overload the forklift
• never drive with an elevated mast and load, unless you’re picking up or putting away the load
• ensure all loads are centred and secured.

When the forklift is left unattended, the ignition key should be removed, or ignition control locked off to stop unauthorised people from using it.

If the forklift does tip over your instinct may be to jump. This is likely to cause serious crush injuries or death. In a forklift tip over, you should:

• remain seated and don’t lean out of the forklift
• brace your feet, hold tight and lean away from the point of impact.

More information

• Forklift safety advice
• Industrial lift trucks guidance material

Date of incident: 19 February 2020

A 34-year-old worker was shovelling ice into a horizontal screw auger conveyor at a poultry processing plant at Tahmoor when his leg became trapped.

The investigation

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Safety information

Businesses are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in accordance with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with working on or around machinery.

Make sure you separate workers from moving machinery by having:

• permanently fixed guarding, where access is not required during operation
• interlocked guarding, where access is required during operation

If these options are not practicable, make sure the guarding can only be removed by using a tool.

Also, make sure the guarding:

• is solid and securely mounted
• is difficult to by-pass or disable, whether deliberately or accidentally
• can be removed for maintenance and cleaning tasks – but the machine can’t be restarted until the guarding is replaced
• doesn’t create a new hazard
• doesn’t make the machine more difficult to operate, which may result in the guard being removed or disabled.

Further information

• Guide to machine safety
• Machine guarding safety pack (factsheets, posters, toolbox talk form)
• Machine safety videos
• Code of practice for managing the risks of plant in the workplace

Download a PDF of this release

A 53-year-old worker fractured his femur and pelvis after being crushed by unrestrained glass sheets, which fell from an A-frame, when a sheet he was cleaning shattered while suspended from a crane.

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.The investigation

Safety information

Businesses are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in accordance with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with working with glass. Make sure:

• you never attempt to restrain glass by hand
• you use a rack or transport frame to securely store, cradle, lift, transport and restrain glass sheets
• all glass sheets are restrained
• you never stand in front of glass sheets when loading or unloading from a rack, trolley or A-frame
• you always have a plan when lifting glass sheets – consider the work area, and the size and weight of the sheets
• you use the right mechanical aid – glass lifting grab, clamp, vacuum or suction cup lifter –depending on the size and weight of the glass sheets
• you keep mechanical aids in good working order
• no-one works under a suspended load or in any potential fall zones
• workers not involved in moving, cleaning or storing glass are kept away from the work area.

Further information

• Storing and handling glass video safety alert
• Unpacking glass sheets safety alert
• Code of practice for hazardous manual tasks

Download a PDF of this release

Two maintenance workers were doing electrical work using a forklift and workbox at a manufacturing site in Barooga in the Riverina region. The forklift accidentally lifted the workbox, crushing one worker between the workbox and the underside of the roof. The worker sustained fatal head injuries.

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Safety information

Businesses are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in accordance with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures when using plant not specifically designed to lift people, such as forklifts fitted with workboxes. Make sure:

• the workbox is fitted with overhead protection if there is a risk of collision
• the forklift driver holds a current, valid licence
• the forklift data plate includes the workbox model number
• the workbox is securely attached to the forklift, according to manufacturer’s instructions
• workers are trained to use the workbox safely and follow emergency procedures, so occupants can be rescued if necessary
• the forklift is on a hard, flat, level surface, with the park brake applied, controls in neutral and the mast is vertical
• the path is clear of overhead obstructions – do a test lift with an empty workbox
• the forklift driver stays at the controls when someone is in the workbox
• workers wear a safety harness in the workbox, if there is a risk of falling from a height.

Further information

• Forklifts safety advice
• Industrial lift trucks guidance material
• Clause 219 – Plant that lifts or suspends loads
• Clause 220 – Plant not specifically designed to lift or suspend a person
• AS 2359.2-2013 Powered industrial trucks - Operations
• AS 2359.1:2019 Powered industrial trucks – General requirements

Download a PDF of this release

A 32-year-old man sustained fatal injuries when he became caught in a timber pallet-making machine at a factory in St Marys.

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Safety information

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risk of plant in the workplace.

Use the following risk management process:

• Identify all foreseeable hazards associated with machinery, including mechanical hazards, such as entanglement, impact and cutting, and non-mechanical hazards, such as ergonomic, electrical, dust, confined spaces and the like.
• Manage the risks associated with these hazards.
• Use the most effective machine guarding, such as permanently fixed guards or interlocked guards, that don’t rely on human behaviour – make sure the guards can’t contact moving parts.
• Control access to dangerous areas, screen harmful emissions, minimise noise and prevent ejected parts from striking people.
• Program machine re-setting, particularly during maintenance, to prevent unexpected start-up or movement.

When working with machinery:

• Do a pre-start check before using, to confirm it’s safe.
• Make sure all guards are working.
• Use it for the purpose it was designed.
• Follow operating procedures when setting-up, operating, cleaning and maintaining.
• Don’t remove guards or bypass safety devices.
• Isolate the machine and make sure all stored energy has dissipated before accessing hazardous areas.
• When doing maintenance in ‘jogging mode’, make sure guards remain in place and are effective in managing risks.

Further information

• Managing the risks of plant in the workplace – code of practice
• Safety guarding on machines
• Machine safety fact sheet
• Machine guarding safety video

Download a PDF of this release

A 50-year-old mechanic suffered fatal crush injuries in Tumut, whilst working on the brake line of a tipper truck. The worker was situated underneath the truck when it rolled forward over the worker before coming to rest after colliding with another parked tipper truck.

Safety information

Businesses must implement ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with uncontrolled movements (e.g. roll aways) of vehicles, including trucks, cars, buses, vans, forklifts, tractors, mobile cranes and the like.

You must:

• when acquiring vehicles, consider models and options that eliminate or minimise the risk of uncontrolled movement
• park the vehicle on level ground. Where it is not reasonably practicable to park the vehicle on level ground, be aware of the limitations of the vehicle including the maximum slope of the supporting surface and what to do when parking on a gradient
• always apply the parking brake when exiting the vehicle
• appropriately chock the wheels of vehicles and trailers before conducting inspection or maintenance activities to prevent uncontrolled movement
• ensure the vehicle is inspected and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations
• be familiar with the components and limitations of the braking system that may cause unintentional release of the brakes
• consider implementing aftermarket controls that minimise the risk of uncontrolled movement of vehicles, (e.g. include seat sensor interlocked brakes or fail-safe braking systems)
• where it is not reasonably practicable to employ engineering controls, implement other controls such as alarm systems and/or operating procedures
• develop site specific parking locations and procedures in consultation with workers
• ensure workers have the necessary training, experience and supervision to identify hazards and control the risks associated with the uncontrolled movement of vehicles
• routinely monitor and review all control measures.

More information

• Code of practice for managing the risks of plant in the workplace
• Safety alert; Working with or around mobile plant
• Safety alert: Uncontrolled movement of vehicles safety alert

Date of incident: 28 September 2020

A 70-year-old truck driver was fatally crushed while unloading a 400-500kg excavator sieve bucket from a semi-trailer. The bucket was lashed to the semi-trailer. When the chains holding the bucket were released, the bucket slid and toppled off the truck, crushing the worker between the bucket and a bridge beam on the ground next to the truck.

Safety information

Businesses must implement ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with loading and unloading mobile plant equipment.

You must:

• check that the load has not shifted during transportation before releasing the transportation restraints
• develop and document a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS), in consultation with your workers, for unloading plant and equipment with a crane. Make sure all relevant workers understand and implement the SWMS.
• where necessary, sling the load to lifting equipment, such as a crane, prior to releasing the transportation restraints
• determine the weight or centre of gravity of the load, and the slinging technique to be used. A Dogging High Risk Licence is required for this type of work
• establish exclusion zones to make sure people are not placed within potential fall zones

More information

• Plant, machinery and equipment information
• Code of practice for managing the risks of plant in the workplace
• WorkSafe Qld video on unloading mobile plant

View the latest incident information releases at Incident Information Releases

Date of incident: 10 August 2020

A 52-year-old tow truck driver was fatally crushed by a prime mover as it rolled off a tilt tray semi-trailer in Newcastle. The incident occurred as the truck driver was loading the prime mover he had purchased onto the tilt tray semi-trailer. It appears that when the driver raised the tilt tray to place tie down chains around the chassis of the prime mover, it rolled backwards off the tilt tray and crushed him. NSW Police are preparing a coroner’s report.

Businesses must consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risk of uncontrolled movements of vehicles.

You should:

• park the vehicle on level ground. If not, be aware of the vehicle limitations and what to do when parking on a gradient
• use chocks behind the wheel to prevent uncontrolled movement
• always apply the parking brake when exiting the vehicle
• make sure the vehicle is inspected and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations
• understand the components and limitations of the braking system
• when recovering or towing vehicles, use designated connection points and check the braking systems and steering controls for damage
• when connecting recovery equipment to vehicles, do not place yourself between potential crush points
• make sure workers are provided with training and instruction on assessing and using recovery systems
• develop site specific parking locations and procedures in consultation with workers
• make sure you have the necessary training and experience to identify hazards associated with uncontrolled movement of vehicles
• routinely monitor and review all control measures

Further information

You can also refer to the following guidance materials:

*Working with or around mobile plant
*Code of Practice – Managing the risks of plant in the workplace
*Uncontrolled movement of vehicles safety alert | SafeWork NSW

View the latest incident information releases at safework.nsw.gov.au

Date of incident: 16 September 2019

A 65-year-old driver suffered fatal injuries when struck by two steel pipes as they were being unloaded from a heavy-vehicle trailer in Moorebank. A telehandler, operating from the opposite side of the truck, was used to unload the pipes.

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Safety information

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with unloading heavy loads.

Before entering any work area, delivery drivers should be inducted into the site-specific rules and procedures, then directed to an exclusion zone that allows mobile plant to be used safely.

Before unloading, make sure:

• fasteners and load restraint systems are working as intended, and are in good condition – restraint systems should prevent loads from moving and control pipes from rolling off the truck bed or against a truck-mounted post, barrier or frame
• workers are competent, have received training and instructions on loading and unloading stock safely, and have appropriate high-risk work licences if necessary
• the appropriate plant is used to lift and transport the stock, and attachments are compatible and properly fitted.

When loading or unloading, make sure:

• workers don’t place themselves between the load and the truck, trailer, lifting equipment or any other pinch point
• workers don’t work on the opposite side of the trailer (other than when seated in the cab of a backstop forklift).

Further information

• Machinery and equipment safety page
• Forklift safety page
• Forklift load handling safety video
• Forklift information sheet for owners and operators
• Industrial lift trucks – general guide
• How to manage work health and safety risks - code of practice
• Guidance for transporting and stacking wide loads
• Managing the risks of plant in the workplace - code of practice
• Moving plant on construction sites

Download a PDF of this release

Date of incident: 2 April 2020

A 54-year-old truck driver was crushed by a loading ramp and died, while unloading earthmoving equipment from a low loader.

This is the second death in NSW in the past six months involving a truck driver being crushed by loading ramps.  In November 2019, a similar incident occurred.

If you operate and maintain low loader trailers, make sure:

• you assume a loading ramp can fall on someone at any time, unless properly restrained
• you don’t rely on hydraulics or other lowering devices to prevent a ramp falling
• those involved in the task are properly informed, trained and supervised
• pre-start checks are done, including inspecting and testing the hydraulic system
• measures are in place to prevent anyone being in the ‘swing arc’ area when ramps are lowered, raised or unsecured
• procedures are in place to deal with hydraulic malfunctions, loss of hydraulic oil, hydraulic oil leaks, damage to hydraulics or structural failures
• ramps are used according to manufacturer’s instructions
• ramps and other equipment are regularly inspected and maintained by a competent person
• there are signs at the rear of the vehicle, warning people to stay clear of ramps
• workers can’t be struck by a falling ramp.

More information

• Code of practice for managing the risks of plant in the workplace
• Hydraulics safety information
• Truck and trailer ramps

A 51-year-old man was crushed by his truck in Marsden Park when it rolled down a slope as he was fitting a dog-trailer to it. It’s the second serious truck roll-away incident in NSW in the past seven months.

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Safety information

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with uncontrolled movements (e.g. roll-aways) of vehicles, including cars, trucks, buses, vans, forklifts, tractors, mobile cranes and the like.

Make sure you:

• park the vehicle on level ground, or be aware of the limitations of the vehicle and what to do when parking on a gradient
• apply the parking brake when you get out of the vehicle
• have the vehicle inspected and maintained according to the manufacturer’s recommendations
• know the limitations of the braking system and what may cause the brakes to release
• consider installing seat-sensor interlocked brakes, a fail-safe braking system or anything that will prevent uncontrolled movements of the vehicle
• install an alarm system, or implement operating procedures or other low-level controls if you can’t use engineering controls
• when acquiring vehicles, consider options that eliminate or minimise the risk of uncontrolled movements
• develop site-specific parking locations and procedures in consultation with workers
• train your workers
• monitor and review control measures.

Further information

You can also refer to the following guidance materials:

• Code of practice for managing the risks of plant in the workplace
• Working with or around mobile plant safety alert
• Uncontrolled movement of vehicles safety alert

Download a PDF of this release

Date of incident

5 November 2019

Incident overview

A 55-year-old truck driver sustained fatal injuries after being crushed by a hydraulic powered ramp on a trailer connected to the prime mover he was driving. The incident occurred as the truck driver was attempting to unload two vehicles from the trailer in an industrial area in Ingleburn. After removing the safety chains from the ramps, one of the ramps has fallen, fatally crushing the driver.

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Safety Information

Businesses are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in accordance with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.

Businesses must implement ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with hydraulic systems:

Always assume a loading ramp can fall on a person at any time unless properly secured by a restraint device. Never rely on the trailer hydraulics or other lowering devices to prevent a ramp from falling.

Persons involved in the operation and maintenance of loading ramps on trailers must ensure:

• persons undertaking the lowering and raising of loading ramps have received adequate information and training and are supervised to the extent necessary for safe operation
• appropriate pre-start checks of trailers are conducted, including a visual inspection of the hydraulic system and where practicable, test the operation of the hydraulic system
• effective control measures are put in place to prevent workers and/or members of the public being in the ‘swing arc’ area when ramps are being lowered or raised, or when the ramps are in the raised position but not secured
• procedures to deal with hydraulic system malfunctions, loss of hydraulic oil, hydraulic oil leaks, damage to hydraulics or structural failures are in place and followed
• ramps are used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions
• ramps and their ancillary equipment are regularly inspected and maintained by a competent person
• clearly visible signs at the rear of the vehicle warning people to remain clear of ramps at all times help to highlight the risk
• workers should never stand or move past where they could be struck by a falling ramp

Further information

You can also refer to the following guidance materials:

• Code of Practice – Managing the risks of plant in the workplace
• Hydraulics safety information – WorkCover Queensland
• Truck and trailer ramps  - WorkCover Queensland

Download a PDF of this release

A 67-year-old man suffered fatal injuries when crushed between containers at Port Botany. He was working near a forklift carrying a 12-metre long shipping container, when the container hit a stationary container, causing it to slide and trap the man between it and a nearby stack of containers.

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Safety information

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risk of lifting and transporting shipping containers.

Make sure:

• the site has adequate space and light to operate plant safely around the containers
• the environmental conditions – heat, cold, rain, wind, ventilation – don’t hinder safety
• exclusion zones are established and maintained around containers and mobile plant, to protect workers from falling objects and moving plant - as set out in your traffic management plan
• plant and equipment is fit for purpose, inspected and properly maintained, in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations
• operators are competent and hold the relevant high risk work licence for the work they are doing, such as the operating reach stackers, forklifts or cranes.

Further information

• AS 3711.10 - Freight Containers – Handling and storing standards
• Workplace Traffic Management – general guide
• How to manage work health and safety risks - code of practice
• SafeWork NSW Code of practice – Managing the risks of plant in the workplace

Download a PDF of this release

Incident overview

A truck driver was standing next to his truck as a forklift was used to load it with pine timber packs at a workplace in Bathurst. One of the timber packs fell off the tray, striking the truck driver. The driver sustained a serious head injury and later died as a result of his injuries.

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Safety information

You must consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risk when moving heavy loads:

• Train all lifting equipment operators and certify each worker holds the appropriate high-risk work licence for the task.
• Establish a no-go zone where there is a risk of the load falling.
• Separate plant from people in loading and unloading zones.
• Ensure mobile plant attachments are fit for purpose, compatible with the host plant and fitted and secured properly before use.
• Always consider the weight, size, shape and composition of the load when selecting equipment and preparing the transport method.
• Never exceed the rated capacity of the lifting equipment (check how lifting equipment can cope when combined with attachments).
• Check the destination location is suitable for the load in terms of weight, size and stability (eg when stacking on top of other materials, ensure the materials can receive the load).
• Lift and carry loads in a way that ensures mobile plant remains stable.
• Avoid lifting loads of more than one item which might not remain steady on the attachment when travelling or unloading.
• Travel with the load lowered to allow the operator to see and maintain stability of the load (if not practicable, reverse or engage a spotter).
• Never sling a load from the tines.

Further information

You can also refer to the following guidance materials:

• Machinery and equipment safety page
• Forklift safety page
• Forklift load handling safety video
• Forklift information sheet for owners and operators
• Industrial lift trucks – general guide
• How to manage work health and safety risks - code of practice
• Guidance for transporting and stacking wide loads

Download a pdf of this release

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW has commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Safety information

Businesses must consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risk of uncontrolled movements (roll away) of vehicles, including cars, trucks, buses, vans, forklifts, tractors, mobile cranes etc.

You should:

• Park the vehicle on level ground. Where it is not reasonably practicable to park the vehicle on level ground, be aware of the limitations of the vehicle including the maximum slope of the supporting surface and what to do when parking on a gradient.
• Always apply the parking brake when exiting the vehicle.
• Ensure the vehicle is inspected and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Be familiar with the components and limitations of the braking system that may cause unintentional or unintentional release of the brakes.
• Consider implementing aftermarket controls that minimise the risk of uncontrolled movement of vehicles, (eg include seat sensor interlocked brakes or fail safe braking systems).
• Where it is not reasonably practicable to employ engineering controls, implement lower level controls such as alarm systems and/or operating procedures.
• When acquiring vehicles, consider models and options that eliminate or minimise the risk of uncontrolled movement.
• Develop site specific parking locations and procedures in consultation with workers.
• Ensure workers have the necessary training, experience and supervision to identify hazards to control the risks associated with the uncontrolled movement of vehicles.
• Routinely monitor and review all control measures.

Further information

You can also refer to the following guidance materials:

• Working with or around mobile plant
• Code of Practice – Managing the risks of plant in the workplace
• Uncontrolled movement of vehicles safety alert | SafeWork NSW

Download a PDF of this release

SafeWork NSW Inspectors responded to the incident.

SafeWork NSW has commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Our Prosecution Guidelines (January 2018) outline our approach to prosecutions and Safe Work Australia’s National Compliance and Enforcement Policy provides guidance on their approach to compliance. These documents set out factors that will be considered in determining the investigative approach and appropriate outcome.

Safety Information

Businesses are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in accordance with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.

Businesses must consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks when carrying out inspections or doing maintenance/repair work underneath raised tipping or tilting trays on trucks or trailers.

These include ensuring:

• safe systems of work are developed and implemented before starting work to minimise the risk of working under a tipper tray
• maintenance activities are carried out by a competent person in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations
• work or inspections are not undertaken between a raised tipper tray and the vehicle chassis rails, unless the tray is supported by a mechanical stop, such as a safety bar correctly applied, or suitably designed props or stands
• wood is never used to support an elevated tipper tray
• limiter cables are protected from inadvertent activation by the use of shrouds or guarding
• controls for raising and lowering the tipper tray are clearly marked and protected from inadvertent operation, and the system is isolated (eg truck is turned off and keys removed from ignition)
• hydraulics and mechanical parts are regularly inspected and maintained by a competent person
• worn or damaged parts are repaired or replaced
• new vehicles have safeguards fitted to the tipper tray system, such as built-in props/stops to secure the tray when elevated.

Support

Our Coordinator Family Liaison can provide information on counselling and other support to injured workers and to close family members when a relative has died or is seriously injured in the workplace.  Contact us on 13 10 50 or contact@safework.nsw.gov.au

Visit www.coroners.justice.nsw.gov.au for information about the State Coroner.

Further information

You can also refer to the following guidance materials:

• Australian Standard AS 1418.8 – Cranes, hoists and winches
• Hydraulics safety information – WorkCover Queensland

About this information release

We have issued this information to draw attention to a fatality in the transport and maintenance industry. Investigations are ongoing and further information may be published as it becomes available. The information contained in this publication is based on knowledge and understanding at the time of writing. Users are reminded of the need to ensure any information upon which they rely is up to date and to check the currency of the information with the appropriate SafeWork NSW officer or the user’s independent adviser. No conclusions should be drawn from the information in this publication about the cause of the incident or the culpability of any party. All photographs were taken by SafeWork NSW.

Download a PDF of this release

Incident overview

A truck driver was fatally injured when he was trapped between the bottom well deck and the chassis rail of a heavy vehicle transport trailer in a carpark at Kirrawee.

• SafeWork NSW Inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW has commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Safety information

Businesses must consider all ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks when carrying out inspections or doing maintenance/repair work under raised tipping or tilting trays on trucks or trailers. You should:

• Develop safe systems of work that minimise the risks associated with working under a raised ramp.
• Ensure maintenance activities are carried out by a competent person in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Don’t do work or inspections under a raised ramp unless it is supported by a mechanical stop, such as a safety bar correctly applied, or suitably designed props or stands.
• Don’t use wood to support a raised ramp.
• Protect limiter cables from inadvertent activation with shrouds or guarding.
• Make sure controls for raising and lowering ramps are clearly marked and protected from inadvertent operation, and the system is isolated (eg truck is turned off and keys removed from ignition).
• Have a competent person regularly inspect and maintain hydraulics and mechanical parts.
• Repair or replace worn or damaged parts.
• Fit new vehicles with safeguards attached to the ramp system, such as built-in props/stops to secure the ramp when elevated.

Further information

You can also refer to the following guidance materials:

• Australian Standard AS 1418.8 – Cranes, hoists and winches
• Hydraulics safety information – WorkCover Queensland

Download a PDF of this release

A 28-year-old worker sustained fatal injuries after becoming caught in an organic waste grinder while carrying out wood chipping activities. The worker was feeding wood chips into the grinder using a front-end loader with the grinder being operated by remote control from inside the front-end loader cabin. For reasons unknown, the worker has left the front-end loader with the milling heads of the grinder still running and became caught in the grinder. This is the second fatality in NSW in just over 12 months involving wood chipping activities.

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with wood chipping activities. You must make sure:

• safe working zones are set up around any machinery prior to work commencing
• all moving parts are adequately guarded. All guards are in place and secure to prevent access to moving parts
• workers are trained and competent to operate machinery
• operators are not wearing anything that could be dragged into the machine or could catch on material being dragged into the machine, such as loose-fitting clothes, watches, gloves, etc
• machinery is always operated and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions
• any machinery comes to a complete stop, and is isolated, before attempting to clean or clear any blockages
• machinery is never left unattended while in operation
• appropriate PPE is always worn.

More information

• Amenity tree industry – Code of practice (PDF 1.6MB)
• Australian Standard AS 4024.3701:2020 Forestry Machinery – Wood chippers - Safety
• Guide to managing risks of tree trimming and removal work

A 35-year-old chef was preparing food in the kitchen of a restaurant when he was burned by hot cooking oil.

Another worker was carrying a 20-litre pot of hot cooking oil through the kitchen when the pot slipped from his hand and doused the worker’s trousers in hot oil.

The worker suffered second degree burns to approximately 20% of his body including his back, buttocks, leg and foot.

_{The deep fryer and the shelf beneath the grill where the oil from the fryer is stored.}

Safety information

You must consider reasonably practicable control measures to manage the risks associated with working with hot oil such as:

• buying a fully enclosed system
• leaving the oil to cool in the fryer overnight before draining
• using barriers to prevent other workers from working or walking near the area
• providing appropriate equipment and PPE
• developing and implementing procedures to safely empty and dispose of the oil
• ensuring workers are provided with appropriate training, instruction, information and supervision about the system of work.

More information

• SafeWork Australia model code of practice ’How to manage work health and safety risks’
• Working with hot oil safety alert

Read the latest incident information releases

A 24-year-old electrician received a potentially fatal electric shock while testing a transformer. He contacted exposed conductors as voltages were applied to the transformer.

His co-workers used an automatic external defibrillator (AED) device to revive the worker before he was taken to hospital.

Transformer

Safety information

Electrocution is the second leading cause of death in the construction industry.

Electrical work must be carried out by a licensed electrician, who has the necessary training, tools, equipment and experience for the task.

In NSW, it’s prohibited to work on live electrical equipment unless one or more exceptions apply.

The Code of practice for managing electrical risks in the workplace outlines when working live is permitted, and how to do it. Working de-energised eliminates significant electrical risks.

When voltages are applied to electrical equipment, or measured, make sure:

• no-one can accidentally make contact with exposed components
• a safe work method statement outlines the hazards, risks and control measures
• workers use tools, test equipment and PPE properly
• an emergency plan is prepared

More information

• Code of practice for managing electrical risks in the workplace
• Electrical safety video
• Electrical work guidance material

A 64-year-old worker died after an electric industrial gate weighing nearly 260kg fell on him as he was trying to manually open it. The gate and surrounding fencing had been damaged and was yet to be fully repaired.

This is the third serious incident in NSW in the past five years involving industrial gates falling onto workers - and the second fatality.

Gate involved in incident

Safety information

Electric gates can breakdown for several reasons, such as damage to the gate leaf or support post, or wear and tear of the drive mechanism, stoppers or rails.

Worn or broken stoppers can allow the gate to travel off the end of the track and fall. Broken support posts or guides can also allow a gate to fall.

When the drive mechanism is disconnected some features on the gate don’t work, such as:

• the anti-collision function – the gate can now open into something and crush it
• the travel limiters – you’re now relying on physical stoppers to stop the gate over-travelling
• the gate speed control – it can now run into the stoppers too quickly and they can break.

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with electric gates.You must:

• make sure the gate is installed by a competent person
• use a safe system of work when installing or replacing the gate, to prevent it falling
• engage a competent person, such as a mechanic or engineer, to regularly inspect and maintain the gate, including the drive mechanism, stoppers, posts, rails and tracks.

If the drive mechanism stops working:

• only disconnect it if it’s safe to do so, and only so you can secure the gate
• make sure the gate can be supported in its track by the posts and/or guides
• secure the gate in an open or closed position, and have a competent person complete the repairs as soon as possible
• put up a sign advising the gate is not working
• don’t use the gate manually – it’ll create wear and tear on the stoppers.

If you must use the gate manually, do a risk assessment and develop a safe system of work – and make sure everyone knows how to do it safely.

More information

• Worker crushed by falling gate [WA government Safety Alert]
• Electric sliding gate video - safety alert (YouTube video)
• Code of practice for managing the risks of plant in the workplace [PDF 2.1MB]
• Code of practice for managing the work environment and facilities [PDF 409KB]

There have been four serious incidents involving tree work in NSW over the past five weeks. Every year, workers are seriously injured or killed while doing tree work.

Kosciuszko National Park

A 47-year-old worker suffered serious head and spinal injuries when a large branch pierced his helmet and knocked him to the ground as he was felling a tree in remote, steep terrain.

Kosciuszko scene

Wollongong

A tree worker suffered serious injuries after falling about eight metres while preparing to cut overhanging branches on a neighbouring property. He was wearing a work positioning harness with only one point of attachment - a flip line detached from the harness.

Hawkesbury

While doing tree work at a property in Wilberforce, a rope caught on a tree branch was pulled into a woodchipper. The rope was also looped around a worker’s leg and caused a serious leg injury. The worker’s son suffered head and facial injuries from material ejected from the chipper.

Wilberforce scene

Newcastle

An arborist suffered spinal injuries when he fell nearly five metres while pruning a paperbark tree using climbing techniques. His pole belt was attached to a vertical branch and climbing rope attached within a fork on the same branch, above his head. As he reached across to prune the branches, the climbing line loaded with his weight, and the branch snapped.

Newcastle scene

Safety information

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with tree work.

Before tree work commences:

• make sure competent workers plan and prepare their work method after inspecting the site and assessing the trees for bark, dead branches, hollows, crown entanglement and the like
• consult with workers to determine the best control measures and document the safe work method to manage the risks
• train the workers in emergency rescue plans, including aerial rescue procedures
• make sure there are clear access routes, exclusion zones and traffic management plans
• consider using elevated work platforms (EWP) to minimise the risk of falls
• make sure workers can communicate with two-way radios, whistles or signal systems.

If a tree is not felled from the ground, conduct a site-specific risk assessment to help you decide the safest way of accessing the tree which may include the use of an EWP, a crane or climbing.

If you must climb a tree, make sure:

• you use a rope climbing system, secured somewhere in the tree, which can withstand the forces of a fall
• you have two points of attachment to the tree at all times, particularly while cutting or moving within the tree - use a flip line and a climbing rope.

For all types of tree work, make sure:

• you reassess and replan whenever new or unforeseen circumstances arise
• a spotter is used to alert the tree worker of any hazards using the agreed communication system
• plant and equipment are used according to the manufacturer’s recommendations - eg within gradient limitations and on firm ground
• workers are trained as frequently as necessary to remind them of the risks and controls.

When using a woodchipper:

• do pre-start checks to make sure everything works properly, including emergency stops and control bar
• make sure nothing is entangled in material before it’s fed into the woodchipper
• establish exclusion zones around the woodchipper
• keep unnecessary ropes away from the work area
• operate according to manufacturer’s instructions
• make sure there are always at least two competent workers who have specific training on the machine being used
• feed branches off the centre line - the operator feeding the branches into the woodchipper should do so from the side
• use a ‘push-stick’ at least 1.5 metres long to feed shorter material into the machine
• stop the rollers before reaching into the chute
• make sure it's never left unattended while operating.

More information

• Code of practice for amenity tree work
• Guidance material on tree work
• Tree work self-assessment checklist
• Tree work industry action plan
• Tree work action plan: outcomes

A zookeeper suffered serious head and neck injuries at a south coast zoo after being attacked by two adolescent male lions after entering the lion enclosure.

Enclosure where incident occurred

Safety information

When working in a zoo, wildlife park or mobile exhibit, such as a circus, you must manage the risks when working with animals.

Make sure:

• the animal can’t escape from its enclosure
• gates/doors/slides and other entry devices in enclosure boundaries are secure and safe
• the animal can be safely confined in its main enclosure or holding facility, when access to either section is required
• all gates/doors/slides and other entry devices are designed and maintained so the animal can’t damage or unfasten the securing device
• the control mechanism for gates/doors/slides and other entry mechanisms are in an area where the animal is unable to contact the person operating the controls
• locks used in carnivore enclosures only allow removal of the key once the lock is secured
• animal service areas near carnivore enclosures have appropriate warning signs
• a high-pressure water hose or fire extinguisher (CO2 type) for animal control is close to the enclosure
• you have an emergency plan.

Carnivorous animals must be supervised by a properly trained person who can:

• safely handle and restrain the animal
• minimise the likelihood of an attack on keepers, other members of staff, and members of the public
• minimise the animal’s stress
• provide the animal an adequate diet
• recognise aberrant behaviour and indicators of ill health
• use a firearm in emergencies.

All carnivorous animals must be removed from their enclosure before anyone goes into that enclosure, due to their potential danger to humans. This doesn't apply when:

• they're tame and present no risk
• they weigh less than 20kg
• they're anaesthetised
• they're restrained
• people viewing from a vehicle are protected from contact with the animal
• an animal trainer enters an enclosure to train or perform with them, according to relevant safe work method statements, risk assessments, and other work health and safety obligations.

When feeding, handling and training potentially dangerous animals, don't handle them inappropriately, or put yourself or others in dangerous situations.

More information

• Standards for exhibiting carnivores in NSW
• General standards for exhibiting animals in NSW
• Australian animal welfare standards and guidelines
• Guide to managing hazards and risks
• Guide to emergency plans

The NSW Department of Primary Industries has made a significant contribution to the development of this incident information release.

Date of incident: 6 May 2020

A 60-year-old worker was crushed and died after becoming trapped between the arm of a vehicle-loading crane and the truck it was mounted on. The incident occurred as the crane was lifting equipment onto the back of the truck and, although the emergency stop was activated, the worker couldn’t be freed until emergency services arrived.

You must implement ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with using vehicle-loading cranes.

Make sure:

• you choose the right equipment for the job and only use it for the purpose it was designed
• you follow the manufacturer’s guide for inspections, maintenance and testing
• any inspection, maintenance or testing is completed by a competent person
• fluid levels and pressures are correct, and any hydraulics are working correctly
• all operators are trained in how to use the crane, and hold a high-risk work licence for a vehicle-loading crane - class CV or one of the four slewing mobile crane classes - if the crane has a capacity of 10 metre tonnes or more
• there are no obstructions to the crane operator – they can see the load at all times during the lift; if the load is outside the operators view, the lifting process must be directed by a licensed dogger or rigger
• operational warning devices (where fitted) are automatically operated when the crane is in use
• emergency stops are located at each control station
• the crane is always level and only operated within its rated capacity
• outriggers are fully extended and located on pads or other support material
• you establish exclusion zones to separate people and moving plant.

Consider:

• using constant pressure controls, so operation stops when you release the controls
• using remote controls
• installing operational warning devices (audible alarm or flashing light) if not already provided
• installing slew limiters, to stop the boom hitting the operator
• installing physical barriers or guards to prevent access to dangerous parts
• providing controls that can only be operated from where the boom or load can’t be lifted over the operator.

More information

• Vehicle loading crane information sheet
• High risk work licensing for vehicle loading cranes
• Plant, machinery and equipment information
• Code of practice for managing the risks of plant in the workplace

Two workers were seriously burned when an 11kV electrical cable exploded while they were excavating a pit in Eastern Creek. The workers were excavating near live electrical services cabling. Both workers were wearing flash-proof clothing that reduced the exposure to the blast.

The site and excavation pit

The investigation

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Safety information

You must eliminate or minimise electrical risks, so far as is reasonably practicable.

In NSW, it’s prohibited to work on live electrical equipment unless one or more exceptions apply.

The code of practice for managing electrical risks in the workplace outlines when working live is permitted, and how to do it. Working de-energised eliminates significant electrical risks.

Before excavating:

• get asset plans and information from registered utilities and asset owners, such as dial before you dig
• ask the asset owner about specific conditions for any excavation work if you’re working near cables at or above 132kV – if so, the asset owner must supervise your work
• locate all underground electrical cables and, remember, inaccuracies can occur on plans:
  • look for signs of the services along the easement and ground
  • use an electronic cable locator or ground penetrating device
  • pothole using non-destructive methods, such as a vacuum
• contact the asset owner if any doubts exist – never assume depth or alignment
• develop safe systems of work and emergency procedures, and make sure all workers are trained
• be aware that certain work can only be done by authorised service providers
• communicate with all affected parties.

When excavating:

• provide supervision, and spotters where required
• install barriers around the work area to control risks to the public
• wear the appropriate personal protective equipment
• look for signs of services, including a change in soil type, cable bricks, locator tape or cable covers
• don’t use powered excavation (unless non-destructive) within:
  • 300mm of low voltage electrical cables – up to 1000 volts (1kV)
  • 600mm of electricity conductors from 11kV up to 33kV
• contact the asset owner to discuss any excavation work near high voltage electricity cables – from1kV up to 33kV
• only work within your designated authorised service provider qualifications.

On completion of the work:

• communicate again with all affected parties
• give asset plan updates and anomalies to the asset owner
• review your risk control measures and systems of work to identify improvements

'Test for 'dead' before you touch’, always.

More information

• Work near underground assets - Guide
• Electrical work guidance material
• Excavation work – code of practice
• Construction work – code of practice

Date of incident: 16 March 2020

A 24-year-old electrician suffered serious burns to his forearms, hands and face when he touched a live electrical circuit and caused an arc flash explosion. The incident took place at a data centre under construction in Macquarie Park.

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Safety information

Businesses are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in accordance with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.

This includes eliminating or minimising electrical risks, so far as is reasonably practicable.

In NSW, it’s prohibited to work on live electrical equipment unless one or more exceptions apply.

The Code of practice for managing electrical risks in the workplace outlines when working live in permitted, and how to do it.

Working de-energised eliminates significant electrical risks.

To isolate electrical supply, you must:

• consult with the person who manages or controls the workplace about timing of the work, and tell anyone who may be affected
• identify the circuit that needs to be isolated
• disconnect active conductors from the relevant source - there may be multiple sources - and stand-by systems, generators and photovoltaic systems, as well as auxiliary supplies, from other boards
• if a removable or rack-out circuit breaker or combined fuse switch is used, make sure it’s racked-out or removed, then locked open and danger tagged
• earth each high-voltage exposed part after proven de-energised
• lock the isolating switch, or remove and tie back relevant conductors, to protect those carrying out the electrical work
• tag the switching points, to provide general information to those at the workplace
• test that the relevant circuits have been de-energised, along with any other relevant conductors, and re-test as necessary.

'Test for 'dead' before you touch’, always.

Further information

• Electrical work guidance material
• Electrical safety video
• Electrical arc flash hazard management guideline

Download a PDF of this release

Date of incident: 15 January 2020

An 18-year-old apprentice auto electrician died after becoming trapped between the cab of a truck and its engine, at a workshop in Brocklehurst, north of Dubbo.

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Safety information

Businesses are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in accordance with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with working under an elevated truck cabin, which includes developing safe systems of work that makes sure:

• only a competent person carries out maintenance work under the cabin, according to manufacturer’s instructions
• a mechanical stop, such as a safety bar, or suitably designed prop or stand, is locked in position so that it won't move accidentally
• controls for raising and lowering the cabin are clearly marked and can’t be accidentally operated
• the system is isolated – eg the truck is turned off and the keys removed from the ignition
• hydraulics and mechanical parts are regularly inspected and maintained by a competent person
• worn or damaged parts are repaired or replaced
• workers are trained.

You must provide the necessary information, training and supervision to all your workers so they can perform their work safely. Training should be an ongoing process and, when young workers are involved, make sure you consider their:

• work experience and previous training
• ability to cope with unexpected, stressful situations
• knowledge and understanding of workplace rights and responsibilities
• willingness to speak up when they have an issue.

More information

• Checklist for training young workers
• Heavy vehicles or trailers hitting or crushing workers
• Young workers eToolKit 
• Isolation of plant fact sheet

Download a PDF of this release

Date of incident: 9 December 2019

Two workers suffered serious burns when a ring main unit (RMU) exploded while they were working on an electrical power distribution system in Port Macquarie.

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Safety information

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks when working with electricity. Make sure:

• work within an electricity substation and on high-voltage equipment is only performed by trained and authorised staff trained under a safety management system defined by the asset owner/operator
• the electricity network operator (ENO) has a safety management system that meets the requirements of the Electricity Supply (safety and network management) Regulation 2014
• the owner/operator of other high-voltage installations complies with the NSW service and installation rules and requirements of the ENO supplying the installation.

Further information

• IPART safety alert 191209-1
• Electrical work guidance material
• SafeWork NSW electrical safety video
• Code of practice for managing electrical risks in the workplace

Download a PDF of this release

Date of incident: 12 November 2019

A 24-year-old man was killed near Gundagai after being hit by the boom of a telehandler, while riding outside the cabin.

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Safety information

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with working on, or near, mobile plant. Control measures include:

• not carrying passengers unless the plant is equipped to do so
• wearing a seatbelt
• putting exclusion zones around the plant when it’s operating
• having safe systems of work for the operation of the plant item
• training workers in the use of the plant item
• maintaining the plant according to manufacturer’s recommendations
• doing appropriate inspections – for cranes, follow AS2550.

Further information

• Code of practice – Managing the risk of plant in the workplace
• Code of practice – Moving plant on construction sites
• Safety alert – Working with or around mobile plant
• Plant: Your health and safety guide – WorkSafe Victoria

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Date of incident: 23 October 2019

An electrician died after being electrocuted while servicing a 3-phase commercial dishwasher at a restaurant in Marrickville, Sydney.

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.The investigation

Safety information

The regulation prohibits energised electrical work on electrical installations and appliances, except in specific circumstances.

And electrical work must only be carried out by a licensed electrician, who has the necessary training and experience to undertake the task.

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks of working with electrical wiring, including:

• checking equipment for damaged covers and cords, exposed wires, faulty power switches and circuit breakers, scorch marks and burning smells
• locating all sources of electricity to the equipment and property, including solar and battery storage systems – make sure all systems are isolated
• identifying hazards that may result from isolating the power
• switching off the power and locking the switch (or the meter box itself)
• testing before you touch.

Further information

• Electrical work
• Electrical safety video
• Code of practice for managing electrical risks in the workplace

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Date of incident: 7 September 2019

Incident overview

A group of workers were felling branches and vegetation at a school in Lindfield. A male worker was feeding the branches into a wood-chipper when he was pulled into the machine, sustaining fatal injuries.

• SafeWork NSW inspectors responded to the incident and attended the site.
• SafeWork NSW has commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Safety information

You must consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risk of tree trimming and removal work.

Control measures that may prevent a similar incident include:

• Conducting pre-start checks, to ensure equipment and systems are working correctly.
• Making sure nothing is entangled in material before it’s fed into the wood chipper.
• Keeping unnecessary ropes away from the work area.
• Ensuring emergency stops and control bar are functioning properly.
• Operating the wood chipper according to manufacturer’s instructions.
• Ensuring teams consist of at least two competent workers, who have been given specific training on the individual machine being used
• Feeding branches off the centre line. Where reasonably practicable, the operator feeding the branches into the wood chipper should do so from the side.
• Using a ‘push-stick’ at least 1.5 metres long, to feed shorter material into the machine.
• Stopping the rollers before reaching into the chute.
• Making sure the wood-chipper is never left unattended while operating.

Further information

• Code of practice for the amenity tree industry
• Tree work webinar
• Guide to managing risks of tree trimming and removal work
• Tree work self-assessment checklist
• Safety alert – working safely with trees

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Incident overview

Two workers were buried under a pile of landfill when an industrial compactor (weighing approximately 55 tonne) was moving material at a waste management facility in Eastern Creek. One worker was fatally injured and the other worker was taken to hospital with serious crush injuries.

Date of incident: 2 April 2019

Incident date

2/04/2019

Event

Contact with power lines

Location

Riverview

Incident Overview

A 39 year old electricity network linesman was working on overhead power lines from a truck mounted elevating work platform, when he came into contact with live power lines. He received a serious electric shock and lost consciousness. He was lowered to the ground by other workers. They performed CPR on the linesman including the use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) until emergency services arrived. He was transported to hospital but later died as a result of the injuries sustained in the incident.

• SafeWork NSW Inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW has commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Our Prosecution Guidelines (January 2018) outline our approach to prosecutions and Safe Work Australia’s National Compliance and Enforcement Policy provides guidance on their approach to compliance. These documents set out factors that will be considered in determining the investigative approach and appropriate outcome.

Safety Information

Electricity Network Operators are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in accordance with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017. Businesses must also adhere to provisions of the Electricity Supply Act 1995 and Electricity Supply (Safety and Network Management) Regulation 2014 .

In particular, Electricity Network Operators, in managing electrical risks to health and safety, must:

• Eliminate the electrical risks to health and safety where reasonably practicable by de-energising the electrical supply, and
• If the above is not reasonably practicable, then the risk must be minimised, but not limited to doing one or more of the following:
  1. Substituting the hazardous work practice giving rise to the risk with something that gives rise to a lesser risk.
  2. Isolating the hazard from any person exposed to it – this includes covering all secondary contact points within reach with temporary insulating covers and securing these covers so they can’t be removed accidentally.
  3. Implementing engineering controls, including using an insulated elevating work platform and tools.

If a risk remains, then you must minimise the remaining risk, where reasonably practicable, by implementing administrative controls. This includes maintaining safe separation between the workers and live conductors that are not being worked on, even if they have temporary insulating covers.

A safety observer trained in rescue and resuscitation must be on site during work on live electrical equipment including overhead power lines.

Suitable personal protective equipment (PPE) should be provided and used. This includes wearing low voltage insulating gloves and outer protective gloves on both hands. A detailed visual inspection and an air leak test must be conducted on the gloves before use.

Note

A combination of the controls set out in this IIR but not limited to, may be used to minimise risks, so far as is reasonably practicable, if a single control does not eliminate the risk.

The above risk control measures must be maintained and remain effective for the duration of the works. The risk control and treatment measures must also be reviewed and as necessary, revised to maintain, so far as reasonably practicable, a work environment that is without risks to health and safety.

Support for injured persons and family members affected by a serious workplace incident

Our Coordinator Family Liaison can provide information on counselling and other support to injured workers and to close family members when a relative has died or is seriously injured in the workplace.  Contact us on 13 10 50 or contact@safework.nsw.gov.au

The State Coroner's website has further information.

Further information

• Electricity Supply Act 1995
• Electricity Supply (Safety and Network Management) Regulation 2014.

About this information release

We have issued this information to draw attention to the occurrence of a fatality in the electricity supply industry. Investigations are ongoing and further information may be published as it becomes available.

The information contained in this publication is based on knowledge and understanding at the time of writing. Users are reminded of the need to ensure any information upon which they rely is up to date and to check the currency of the information with the appropriate SafeWork NSW officer or the user’s independent adviser. No conclusions should be drawn from the information in this publication about the cause of the incident or the culpability of any party.

All photographs were taken by SafeWork NSW.

Incident date

Event

Location

Incident overview

A 31-year old male worker was undertaking excavation works using an electrical hammer drill to remove concrete which covered a shallow trench. The work was being undertaken near low voltage cables and an 11kv high voltage cable, all of which were energised at the time. The worker struck the 11kv cable and an arc flash occurred. He sustained serious burns to his upper body and face.

Over 13,600 homes were affected, with power restored to the majority of homes soon after the incident. The remaining homes were supplied with power from a generator until the damaged 11kV cable could be repaired.

SafeWork NSW, NSW Ambulance, NSW Police Force and the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (electricity supply regulator), responded to the incident. The worker was conveyed to hospital and is receiving treatment for his injuries.

The site is located at Bidwill, in Sydney’s West. Activities undertaken at the site included excavation work and the running of electrical cable inside the trench. The site was under the control of a contractor who had been engaged by the electrical network operator to undertake the works.

The investigation

• SafeWork NSW Inspectors responded to the incident.
• SafeWork NSW has commenced an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the incident.

Our Prosecution Guidelines outlines our approach to prosecutions and Safe Work Australia’s National Compliance and Enforcement Policy provides guidance on their approach to compliance. These documents set out factors that will be considered in determining the investigative approach and appropriate outcome.

Safety information

Businesses are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in accordance with the provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017.

Each year, we respond to incidents where workers have been exposed to risks associated with working near underground electrical assets. Many of these incidents involve energised cables being struck by plant, which can result in serious injuries including burns, electric shock or death.

Businesses are reminded of their duty to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that no person, plant or thing at the workplace comes within an unsafe distance of an underground electric line.

If it is not reasonably practicable to ensure the safe distance of a person, plant or thing from an underground electric line, you must make sure that:

• a risk assessment is conducted in relation to the proposed work
• the control measures implemented are consistent with the risk assessment and any requirements of the electrical network operator responsible for the electric line.

Being aware of the risk of electric shock or serious burns from striking live electricity cables while excavating is critical. When undertaking excavation works, know the environment, know your tools and equipment, and know the steps to take to get the job done safely and without causing damage.

If you don’t know, don’t dig, and follow the four P’s of safe excavation:

• Plan
• Pothole
• Protect
• Proceed.

Further information

The guide to working near underground assets has detailed information for businesses, workers, and other parties involved in construction work near underground assets.

Awareness video: Don’t Know Don’t Dig

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