Serious injury: Worker Suffered Serious Head Injuries

Summary: A worker suffered serious head injuries when he was hit by an unsecured bracket that fell while decommissioning a crane. The bracket, weighing 50 kg, fell about 10 metres from the top of the mast section. The bracket glanced off the hard hat of the worker.

Recommendations to industry: Mine operators should have procedures in place to ensure lift plans and job safety procedures are correctly implemented throughout the duration of the task. Items that pose a risk to workers should be secured to prevent injuries.
When objects can fall, appropriate no-go zones should be established to protect workers from falling objects. No-go zones should be clearly communicated and delineated to all workers in the vicinity.