Earthmoving businesses in NSW will be visited by SafeWork Inspectors, as part of a statewide crackdown on injuries caused by plant
SafeWork NSW Inspectors are conducting a statewide targeted compliance operation to reduce injuries caused by mobile plant, fixed machinery and vehicles in the workplace.
The inspections are taking place in a range of different industries, including construction, and will cover earthmoving equipment.
Key risks being targeted include ensuring separation between people and plant, preventing access to moving parts, preventing rollovers and ensuring proper training and licensing.
SafeWork NSW says these high-risk areas are one of the leading causes of workplace fatalities in the state.
“Being hit by moving plant or vehicles or injured when working with fixed machinery are preventable hazards we see across our state and across all industries,” head of SafeWork NSW Trent Curtin says.
“Awareness and assessment of the risks along with implementation of safe systems of work is key to reducing incidents.
“This involves particular consideration of the operating environment, separation of workers and vehicles and consultation with workers to keep them safe.”
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Young and inexperienced workers are particularly at risk on work sites and SafeWork NSW Inspectors will be checking they are adequately trained and supervised on how to work safely around moving plant and vehicles.
On-the-spot fines of up to $4,500 for employers and $900 for individuals can be issued to those who are deemed to be placing workers lives at risk.
“SafeWork NSW inspectors will educate workplaces they visit regarding safe practices but will not accept workers lives being placed at risk,” Curtin says.
SafeWork NSW offer advisory services and a $1,000 small business rebate to assist with purchasing safety equipment. Businesses with less than 50 workers can book a workplace visit with a SafeWork inspector to identify risks and how to manage them.
Information on how to reduce mobile plant, fixed machinery and vehicle related hazards is available on the SafeWork NSW webpage.