Factory worker falls from walkie stacker (21 October 2025)

A factory worker was undertaking general yard clean up duties. The worker began trimming the lower branches of a tree and, to do so, was elevated by another worker in a walkie stacker to a height of approximately 3.5 metres. The walkie stacker tipped, causing the worker to fall to the ground sustaining serious injuries.

Safety information

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with working at heights and the use of mobile plant in the workplace.

Ensure:

  • if the work cannot be caried out from the ground or from a solid construction, workers are provided with plant specifically designed to work at height, such as a temporary work platform
  • if a work platform is to be used on an industrial truck (for example, a forklift) the proposed use is assessed by a competent person (such as the industrial truck manufacturer) to determine if it can be done safely. and whether any additional controls need to be implemented to manage the risks
  • all workers have the appropriate qualifications and competencies to safely and effectively perform the tasks assigned to them
  • adequate consultation is done with a competent person to determine the appropriate selection of plant and equipment for the task
  • plant is inspected, used and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations
  • adequate information, training and instruction is provided to enable workers to perform tasks safely
  • safe systems of work are established, maintained and consistently applied
  • safe work method statements (SWMS) are developed, implemented and maintained for all tasks involving work at heights exceeding 2 metres
  • training and instruction to workers in the safe use of fall arrest equipment (if fitted)
  • emergency rescue procedures are established, tested (to ensure they are affective) and workers are trained in these procedures.

Related guidance material

Further information

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