A concrete manufacturer was recently fined by WorkSafe New Zealand for a
fatality involving a forklift on its worksite last year. Sadly, this tragic
loss of life was preventable if simple safety details had received the
appropriate attention. According to a WorkSafe representative, it was an
"accident waiting happen." The incident illustrates the importance
of site safety for workers
on construction sites.
What happened?
In the dark, early morning hours, a 47-year-old worker was run over and
killed by a 6.5 tonne telehandler that was being used as a forklift. The
incident occurred at an outside work site. This past week, WorkSafe New Zealand
convicted the company for violating the Health and Safety in Employment Act
because they did not take steps to keep their employee safe.
"Practicable" Steps
WorkSafe convicted the company of not taking "practicable" steps.
A simple safety maintenance schedule and checklist could have saved this
employee's life. Consider the steps that should have been taken.
- Failure to maintain equipment.
The majority of the forklift's lights were not operable, including the
headlights, front indicators, brake lights and front hazard lights. The
only light on was a flashing orange indicator on the roof of the vehicle.
Additionally, the right mirror was missing, the overload buzzer was broken
and none of the tyres had the correct pressure.
- Inadequate training.
The forklift was driven by a trainee that was not qualified to operate
that vehicle. He failed to turn on the forklift's field lights.
- Poor site lighting.
The employer failed to install proper lighting to make the work site safe
in dark conditions.
It's often easy to identify failings after the fact. Few employers
intentionally put their employees in danger. However, not enforcing the proper
maintenance and safety protocols has tragic consequences. Let The Detail Devils
help with your safety strategies. Contact our
experts in work health and safety to schedule your assessment.
Free eBook