Timber company fined over hand injury

Western Australia-based timber miller Pinetec was fined $60,000 over an incident in which a worker was badly injured when his hand was caught in machinery. Pinetec was accused of not providing a safe working environment.

The incident occurred at the company’s timber mill in 2006. The man’s right hand and part of his thumb were severed when his hand was caught in the cutting head of a moulder.

WorkSafe WA Commissioner Nina Lyhne said the employee’s serious injuries and suffering may have been avoided if the company had taken steps to control who could access the machine: “Pinetec should have ensured that its employees understood the importance of safe work with this machine and provided training and instruction about how to use the machine.

“Further steps could also have been taken, such as a time-delay mechanism or a key-lock system on the door into the enclosed area where the machine was located.

“Many workers have been seriously injured and even killed when access to equipment or machinery has not been controlled. It is absolutely crucial that safe systems of work are in place.”