Injuries at work are often dismissed as Report Only or other category that does not require an investigation. But all incidents should be investigated and promptly. A recent prosecution of a tuna company in South Australia illustrates this point well.
SafeWorkSA’s media release provides basic details:
“On the 23rd of January, a male employee suffered deep lacerations to his right index finger while attempting to clear a blockage of cardboard in a caser machine, which seals cardboard boxes.
On the 11th of February, a female employee suffered a serious hand injury when trapped by moving parts in the same unguarded opening of the same machine.
The male worker recovered from his injuries quickly, and but the female worker sustained serious bone, nerve and tendon damage, that left her right hand permanently impaired.”
The court was told that the investigation into the first incident was poor. In fact the Industrial Magistrate, Stephen Lieschke, described it as “incompetent”. Continue reading “Prompt investigation is essential to prevent injuries”