Sparks fly after basic safety failing

Failing to properly train and supervise employees has resulted in a conviction, a $25,000 fine and court costs of $4716 for a major civil contracting company.

Fulton Hogan (formerly FRH Group) pleaded guilty to two workplace health and safety charges laid after a sub-contractor’s excavator struck an underground power line. No one was injured.

The incident happened as a redundant gas line was being removed near Market Street in central Melbourne, as part of the demolition of the Flinders Street / King Street overpass on 12 August 2005.

WorkSafe told the court:
• A company employee was acting as spotter for a contract excavator operator who was uncovering and removing an old gas line;
• the employee was not trained in the firm’s safe-digging method;
• WorkSafe inspectors had discussed the protection of in-ground electrical assets with Fulton Hogan managers in May and June 2005.

As they began work to remove the pipe, the excavator unearthed an electrical cable which the two workers believed was not live. The excavator blade was used to cut the cable. Sparks flew, but neither worker was hurt.

The company’s procedures were changed after the incident and training was up-dated.