Teen dies at Ballarat mine

WorkSafe Victoria is investigating the death of a 17-year-old worker who was run over by a truck at Ballarat’s Lihir gold mine yesterday.

Although the investigation is at an early stage, it is understood the young man was hit by a truck from which he had just alighted after a break.

The young worker, who was from Ballarat, was employed by a company contracted to do earthworks at the mine.

The incident happened just after 10 am.

WorkSafe’s executive director, John Merritt, said the death of the first-year apprentice should send a message to all employers and workers about the need to ensure workplaces were as safe as possible.

“In the lead-up to Christmas when most people are extremely busy, [this] incident should send a strong, clear message about how most deaths and injuries occur with people doing routine tasks," he said.

“At this time of year, people are busy getting work completed before holidays, completing contracts or trying to juggle a range of work and social requirements. In retail and warehouse environments, they’re handling enormous amounts of stock on a daily basis."

For more information and guidance on safety solutions for workplace hazards, visit www.worksafe.vic.gov.au.