Woodward Foods Australia Pty Ltd has been convicted and fined $375,000 after a worker suffered serious injuries while using a grain mill to prepare cattle feed. The Industrial Court of NSW also imposed an adverse publicity order.
Woodward Foods Australia pleaded guilty to an offence under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 for failing to ensure, so far as was reasonably practicable, the health and safety of workers. The prosecution was brought by SafeWork.
In addition to the $375,000 fine, the Industrial Court of NSW imposed an adverse publicity order. The company has the right to appeal against its sentence.
SafeWork Commissioner Janet Schorer said risks associated with moving plant and fixed machinery are well known, and injuries involving fixed machinery remain a preventable hazard seen across industries in NSW.
SafeWork has identified preventing injuries caused by mobile plant, vehicles and fixed machinery as an area for action in its regulatory priorities. The regulator highlighted awareness and assessment of risks, together with safe systems of work, as important measures for reducing incidents involving fixed machinery.
SafeWork also provides resources for businesses and workers on managing risks associated with plant, machinery and equipment.
Official source: SafeWork NSW – News & Media Releases