SafeWork NSW has issued a stark reminder to all workplaces—particularly those operating workshops, or a fleets of cars, trucks, and plant—about the dangers posed by vehicles in the workplace. This follows two serious incidents in Sydney during March within just five hours, highlighting the very real risks that exist every day.
At 7:30pm, a man in his 50s was fatally struck by a truck at a recycling centre in Greenacre. Earlier that afternoon, a worker in his 40s was seriously injured after being crushed between two cars at a smash repair workshop in Auburn. Both incidents are now under investigation by SafeWork NSW inspectors.
For executives and business leaders, these incidents are a reminder of their responsibility to ensure robust safety systems are in place wherever vehicles or plant equipment operate alongside people. Failure to manage these risks can have tragic consequences and significant legal and reputational impacts.
SafeWork NSW is currently undertaking a statewide targeted compliance operation to reduce injuries caused by mobile plant, fixed machinery, and vehicles. Since the operation began last month, more than 249 improvement and prohibition notices have been issued. On one street in Prestons alone, 42 improvement notices and seven prohibition notices were handed out over just three days.
The most common issues identified by inspectors include inadequate separation between people and plant, unguarded moving parts, insufficient rollover protection, and lack of proper training and licensing for operators.
Trent Curtin, Head of SafeWork NSW, said, “These two serious incidents within such a short space of time are tragic and my sympathies go out to their families, friends and colleagues. Those working with and around mobile plant, fixed machinery and vehicles need to stop and have a look at the safety systems they have in place to prevent this from happening.”
He added that “awareness and assessment of the risks along with implementation of safe systems of work is key and involves particular consideration of the operating environment, separation of workers and vehicles, and meaningful consultation with workers to keep them safe.”
SafeWork NSW inspectors are actively educating workplaces, but they will not hesitate to issue on-the-spot fines for serious safety breaches. “All workers deserve to return home safely at the end of their work day. No job is too important that it can’t be done safely,” Curtin said.
Executives are encouraged to review their workplace practices and ensure that risks associated with vehicles and machinery are being appropriately managed. Information, including the Code of Practice – Managing the Risks of Plant in the Workplace, is available on the SafeWork NSW website.
In addition, SafeWork NSW offers advisory services and a $1,000 small business rebate to help purchase safety equipment. Businesses with fewer than 50 workers can also book a free workplace visit with a SafeWork inspector to help identify and manage risks.
Workers concerned about safety can report issues by calling SafeWork NSW on 13 10 50 or through the Speak Up app.
