Worker seriously injured by falling stone slab (11 June 2025)

A worker was seriously injured after a stone slab fell on them during a lifting operation at a worksite. The incident occurred while the worker was using a slab clamp attached to the hook of an overhead crane to lift the stone slab onto a transport frame positioned on a truck bed. As the worker landed the stone slab on the frame, it became unstable and fell on the worker.

Transport frame used for holding the stone slab inside a warehouse at a worksite where the incident occurred, showing the equipment.
Photo 1 – Transport frame
Slab clamp gripping a stone slab, suspended from the hook of an overhead crane, in the process of being transported onto a metal transport frame at a worksite.
Photo 2 – Slab clamp
                                                                                                                              

Safety information

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with the risks of lifting and moving stone sheets and slabs.

Ensure:

  • people remain clear of the fall or crush hazard zones during lifting and handling loads
  • appropriate controls are applied to support and stabilise the load prior to the works commencing, as per the manufacturer’s recommendations
  • when suspending and manoeuvring a load using either a manual or an automatic release slab clamp, avoid contact between the load or clamp and other objects
  • the slab is secured in the frame before disengaging the lifting device
  • the manufacturer’s instructions and any limitations applicable to the lifting device are always followed
  • workers do not stand in close proximity or under any unrestrained items at risk of falling
  • a system of work is in place to ensure risks involved with the movement of stone slabs both during and after movement are implemented and followed
  • sufficient information, training, instruction, supervision and competency assessment is provided to workers involved in the loading and unloading of stone slabs
  • a safe system of work to ensure that exclusion zones are implemented to minimise the risk of injury due to falling objects
  • appropriate personal protective equipment is used
  • an emergency plan is in place and workers are trained in relation to the emergency procedures.

Related guidance material

Further information

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