$170K+ spend after worker's arm pulled up to the elbow into rotating rollers
A manufacturing company has pledged to spend $170,800 to improve health and safety outcomes after a worker’s arm was injured while cleaning machinery at a Wangaratta factory.
The incident occurred in June 2023. Two workers were directed to clean a machine that featured two applicator rollers positioned in a way that created a danger area — the machine, when in operation, was used to paint ready-made medium density fireboard (MDF).
The danger area was covered by a hinged guard fitted with an interlock to stop the rollers when it was opened; however, management had been advised that the system was not working.
A safety lanyard and padlock were placed on the closed guard as an interim measure to prevent access until a new interlock was installed. Cleaning was only to be performed under supervision by an electrician once power was isolated from the plant.
On the day of the incident, the two workers were provided with the key to the padlock and left unsupervised to clean the machine, which was not powered down.
The worker’s arm was pulled into the rotating rollers up to his elbow when a rag he was holding became caught. The tissue above his elbow was damaged to the extent it required skin grafts.
It was reasonably practicable, WorkSafe Victoria alleges, for the company to provide or maintain a system of work for how to clean the machine when the interlock was not working — including isolating the plant from power before accessing the rollers. The regulator said it was also necessary for the company to provide supervision, information, instruction and training to workers on the interim measure.
“Unfortunately, when faulty machinery including those without working safeguards are used, it’s a case of when, not if, a serious or life-changing incident will occur,” WorkSafe Victoria Chief Health and Safety Officer Sam Jenkin said.
“It is encouraging to see this company committing to delivering upgrades and resources to help improve safety at both their workplace and others across the wider timber industry.”
The estimated $170,800 undertaking requires the company to:
- develop a platform for accredited online training across safety, compliance and competency development;
- establish a safety committee with budget to identify and prioritise site hazards and develop and implement practical solutions;
- formalise and enhance the current paper-based process by designing and implementing a digital safety program tailored to the site’s environment; and
- for students and apprentices in the timber industry, fund the development of enhanced safety and leadership training modules.
For cleaning plant and equipment safely, WorkSafe Victoria advised the following tips:
- Undertake a risk assessment to identify any hazards and assess how to remove or control them.
- Have a documented procedure in place, including on how to power down and isolate equipment.
- Ensure machines are powered down, fully secured and stable before cleaning begins.
- Ensure machinery is properly guarded and safety interlocks are regularly checked.
- Ensure workers are properly trained and supervised so they understand the procedure and the risks associated with the plant and equipment being cleaned.
$120K fine follows worker caught between conveyor rollers
A boilermaking and welding company has been fined $120,000 in the Industrial Court of NSW after a...
$750K fine follows worker's sleeve getting caught in a nip point
A mining services company has been fined $750,000 after a heavy diesel mechanic became entangled...
Arm amputation after machinery entanglement lands quarry $100K fine
After a worker's arm was entangled in machinery, leading to amputation, the operator of a...
