Worker crushed by prime mover
Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ) has issued an alert following a tragic incident where a worker was fatally crushed by a prime mover.
The incident occurred in July 2018 when the truck was undergoing modifications and was being moved under cover at the end of the work day. According to the alert, it's unclear how the worker came to be under the truck but investigations are continuing.
In Queensland each year there are around 130 accepted workers compensation claims involving a worker being struck or crushed by a truck. Of these claims, more than a third involve a serious injury and two are fatal.
The risk of a vehicle running over a person must be managed by ensuring appropriate control measures are in place. According to WHSQ, controls may include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Before leaving a vehicle ensure it is stationary and out of gear with the handbrake applied.
- Do not climb onto or under a moving vehicle.
- Do not allow any movement of the truck or vehicle unless there is someone at the driver's seat who is able to receive aural or visual warnings and can immediately act to prevent harm (eg, apply brakes or steer the truck).
- When reversing, ensure the area around the vehicle is clear.
- Ensure that the whereabouts of all workers within the work area is known, and that adequate exclusion zones are maintained.
- Always reverse with the aid of mirrors or a spotter.
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