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Worker’s injury results in $42,000 fine…
The employer of a worker injured when he reached into a machine has been fined $42,000 in the District Court. The Department of Labour had asked for an $80,000 fine.
The worker thought the machine had stopped but it was only jammed, so when he reached in and pulled out the material it restarted, causing a cut on his arm. The cut required three stitches from the local GP and the employee was able to return to work the same day.
The problem for the employer was that the machine did not have a guard to prevent access, nor a cut off switch if a guard is opened. The company had to spend $60,000 installing those safety features in addition to the fine.
The Courts are coming down hard on any poor safety practices even if minimal or no injury occurs. If you need assistance with your Health & Safety planning give Alan Knowsley a call.
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