Lamont Investments Qld Pty Ltd

Incident description:

Two workers were curving steel using a sheet metal roller when the adjustment bolt on the end of the release column of the machine failed and struck one worker in the face.

WHSQ investigation findings:

Examination by a forensic engineer found the sheet metal roller was overloaded to the extent of about 10 times its design capacity. The defendant had not identified the system of work for the rolling of this type of steel as a hazard. It had not developed safe operating procedures and did not follow the Plant Code of Practice 2005 to prevent or minimise exposure to the risk.

Court result:

The company was found guilty and fined $30,000. The court took into account the defendant's previous good record, its co-operation with the investigation and the steps it took subsequently to address the issue in ordering that no conviction be recorded.

Considerations for prevention:

Employers must ensure that safe operating procedures are developed and that workers are provided with training on the procedures. Employers must conduct risk assessments on machinery used in the workplace to make sure they are being operated in accordance with its design capacity and manufacturers instructions.

Visit the Workplace Health and Safety Queensland website for more information on:

• safeguarding machinery and plant
• implementing controls, evaluating or monitoring, and
• training staff and conducting risk assessments.