High-risk work licences suspended over unsafe crane operation

Three South Australian workers have lost their high-risk work (HRW) licences over unsafe mobile crane operation. SafeWork SA suspended the licences for three months after one crane operator lifted a rigger on the crane’s hook from one level to another and a second crane driver overrode the plant’s safety limit switch before lifting a load that exceeded the crane’s configured lifting capacity, resulting in the crane overturning, according to the regulator.

The individuals will need to undergo competency reassessment before regaining their licences, the regulator said, adding that it is an offence to perform HRW related to the licences during suspension. SafeWork SA reminded HRW licence holders they have a duty to work safely, without putting themselves or others at risk of harm.

All states require workers to have HRW licences before operating cranes, hoists, forklifts and pressure equipment or performing dogging, rigging and scaffolding work. Failing to carry out HRW safely and competently can result in licence suspension or cancellation and licence holder disqualification from applying for other licences, SafeWork SA said. 

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