Comcare launches court action over Transpacific injuries

Australia’s federal workplace safety regulator, Comcare, recently launched three sets of Federal Court proceedings against Transpacific Industries (TPI), one of Australia’s largest waste disposal companies as a result of three separate safety incidents that harmed its workers.

Comcare alleges that TPI contravened federal workplace safety laws by failing to take all reasonably practicable steps to protect the health and safety of its workers. The maximum penalty for this type of legislative breach by a body corporate is $242,000.

The first incident occurred in Victoria in 2008, where it is alleged that a TPI employee sustained crush and burn injuries to his hand while operating unguarded machinery.

The second occurred in South Australia in 2008, where it is alleged that a TPI employee suffered sulphuric acid burns while attempting to change a vacuum hose being used to clean up acid.

The third set of proceedings was the result of an incident in Western Australia where it is alleged that a TPI employee’s foot was seriously injured when it became caught in a compression machine.

Comcare Work Health and Safety General Manager Neil Quarmby said Comcare is concerned at the national pattern of these incidents, adding: “When mistakes like these are made in the workplace, particularly across three states, there are unfortunate consequences, and so it is timely to take stock and work together to prevent the injury toll.”

All three matters will be heard by the Federal Court at a date yet to be determined by the court.