Pascoe Vale Business Implements $480K Safety Plan After Forklift Incident
In a significant response to a forklift accident that occurred in April 2022, a Pascoe Vale-based company has committed to a $480,000 enforceable undertaking to enhance workplace safety. This decision followed a serious incident where a worker sustained an open wound fracture to his right foot after being struck by a reversing forklift, necessitating multiple surgeries.
Key Details of the Incident and Subsequent Safety Measures
The incident, which took place at the company’s premises, prompted a thorough review by WorkSafe Victoria. The safety regulator identified several areas where safety measures could have been better implemented, including:
- A robust traffic management plan,
- Clearly marked forklift and pedestrian zones,
- Use of spotters when needed,
- Installation of speed limit signs, and
- Regular inspections and maintenance of all forklifts.
Following the court hearing at Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court on March 27, 2024, it was determined that the company had failed to reduce the risk of forklift-related accidents adequately. The enforceable undertaking, a voluntary agreement to undertake specific actions, was accepted in lieu of further legal proceedings. Failure to comply with this undertaking could lead WorkSafe Victoria to reinstate charges against the company.
Comprehensive Safety Overhaul Announced
As part of the $480,509 commitment, the company has outlined several proactive steps to overhaul its safety protocols:
- Hiring of an Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Manager: To ensure ongoing compliance and safety oversight, the company will employ an OHS Manager on a full-time basis.
- Engagement of Third-Party Safety Experts: For the next 36 months, a third-party service provider will conduct OHS audits, as well as review and develop the company’s safety policies and procedures.
- Community and Educational Contributions: The company will donate $10,000 to the Australian Institute of Health and Safety and launch a safety campaign distributing safety brochures within a 5-kilometre radius of the workplace. Additionally, it will sponsor the Youth Support Foundation to organize seminars that educate young people about safe work practices.
- Technological Upgrades: Installation of advanced safety sensors on forklifts, which will trigger an alarm if a pedestrian is detected within eight meters of the rear of the vehicle.
Industry Impact and Ongoing Safety Initiatives
WorkSafe Victoria’s Executive Director of Health and Safety, Dr. Narelle Beer, emphasized the importance of stringent safety measures, stating, “Forklifts are among the biggest causes of workplace injuries and deaths in Victorian workplaces. Even incidents involving slow-moving forklifts can have serious consequences.”
This case serves as a critical reminder for businesses across all sectors to prioritize workplace safety and ensure compliance with safety regulations to prevent accidents. The steps taken by the Pascoe Vale company not only address the immediate safety concerns but also set a precedent for how businesses can respond proactively to workplace incidents.
Conclusion
The enforceable undertaking by the Pascoe Vale company represents a substantial commitment to safety and compliance. By integrating advanced safety technology and enhancing employee and community education, the company aims to create a safer working environment and reduce the likelihood of future incidents. This approach not only benefits the employees but also contributes positively to the broader community and industry standards.