Tropical Reef Boat Building Pty Ltd

Incident description:

A worker suffered spine and facial injuries while performing maintenance on a crane boom (greasing cables) was struck by falling cables and fell to the ground where he was rendered unconscious.

WHSQ investigation findings:

The investigation found that as the crane's cables were being hoisted by another crane the welds failed on lifting lugs attached to the luffing bridle causing the cables to fall. It was also found that the defendant failed to ensure everyone within the lifting zone was cleared from the area before commencing the lift.

Court result:

The defendant pleaded guilty and was fined $35,000. No conviction was recorded.

Considerations for prevention:

Employers must ensure that equipment used when lifting loads is inspected and maintained to ensure it is safe for use during the lifting of loads. During the lifting of loads employers should ensure that exclusion zones have been established and workers are provided with appropriate instruction and training in the use of exclusion zones.

Visit the Workplace Health and Safety Queensland website for more information on managing the risk from plant designed to move objects.