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Michael Peter Querro

Summary

Incident description:

An apprentice ruptured his spleen when he slipped and fell off a roof of a low set house he was working on.

Investigation findings:

The court heard there were insufficient control measures implemented to manage the risk of falls and no instructions or induction training had been provided with respect to working at heights. It was also found that the pitch of the roof exceeded 25 degrees and the tile was of a semi glazed type, factors which increase the risk of falls because they make it harder to secure a stable footing.

Considerations for prevention:

(Commentary under this heading may be additional to material before the court.)

When assessing the risks associated with working at heights in particular those associated with low set houses, factors such as the roof pitch and type of tile used should be considered when implementing controls relating to working on roofs.

Court result:

The defendant failed to appear but the matter was heard in his absence. The defendant was found guilty and sentenced. No conviction was recorded.

Details
   
Industry:
Construction
Defendant:
Michael Peter Querro (ANZSIC code 4223)
Date of offence:
12 November 2007
Location of offence:
Brinsmead
Injury:
Ruptured spleen
Offence:
Grievous bodily harm
Court:
Cairns Industrial Magistrates Court
Magistrate:
Mr Alan Comans
Legislation:
s.28(1) Workplace Health and Safety Act 1995
Plea:
Not entered
Decision date:
9 December 2008
Penalty:
$8,000
Maximum fine available:
$75,000
Investigation costs:
$2,240.45
Professional and legal costs:
Nil
Court costs:
$65.40
In default period to pay:
Referred to SPER
Conviction recorded:
No
CIS No.:
71042

 

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