Worker injured by imported pipe bender

Some imported equipment may not meet Australian Standards, SafeWork SA warned after a Chinese-imported pipe bender failed under hydraulic pressure — leaving a worker with fractures and a minor finger amputation.

To avoid potential risks to workers’ health and safety, SafeWork SA is urging businesses to ensure all plant or pressure equipment is fit for purpose and complies with Australian Standards. Businesses should also carry out risk assessments on the plant prior to it being commissioned for use and ensure appropriate controls are in place to eliminate or, where not reasonably practicable, minimise the risks associated with using the equipment.

SafeWork SA also advises that businesses should ensure workers know the safe working pressure for all pressure equipment and put appropriate safety controls in place such as pressure release valves.

Finally, businesses should test and maintain the plant as required by the manufacturer, or at least annually, and train staff in using the plant.

Workers and employers can refer to the Code of Practice – Managing the Risk of Plant in the Workplace via SafeWork SA’s website.

Image credit: © stock.adobe.com/au/skinfaxi