A machine tragically hit and killed an employee.
Authorities recently investigated how a worker became fatally struck by an excavator.
WorkSafe is examining circumstances surrounding the incident which happened at a work site in Otago, about 390km southwest of Christchurch.
“A worker on foot at a contractor’s yard … was fatally struck by an excavator,” a MinEx safety alert said.
“Details have not yet been released and WorkSafe are investigating the incident. While not at a mine or quarry, this incident is a stark reminder of the hazards of people interacting with heavy machinery.”
Investigators made the following recommendations:
- stop operating all mobile plant when people walk in work areas
- separate light vehicles and pedestrians from heavy equipment where possible
- establish operating heavy equipment positive communication with working mobile equipment for anyone who enters the work area.
Click here to read the full safety alert.
Related articles
Reporting unsafe conditions prevents employee deaths says authority
North Qld truck fatally pins employee after fall
Unstable ground kills heavy vehicle operator
Employer rolls out driverless trucks to ‘eliminate’ fatalities.
Add Comment