The family of a worker electrocuted in 2014 has received compensation as part of a decision made by the South Australian Industrial Court.
The court convicted and imposed a penalty of $45 000, plus court costs on a construction company in recognition of an early guilty plea and the business agreeing to publicise the incident in local newspapers.
In addition, the business in concern consented to an order to pay $20 000 to the family of the worker.
On 23 April 2014, a worker was electrocuted when metal flashing he was holding came into contact with overhead power lines, resulting in his death.
Following investigation by South Australian regulator, SafeWork, the construction company was charged with failing to provide and maintain a work environment, failing to ensure the provision and maintenance of a safe system of work, and failing to ensure the provision of information, training, instruction or supervision of workers.
Presiding Magistrate Ardlie acknowledged that this was the company’s first offence as well as the significant capital invested by the company in training workers, since the incident.
Ardlie added, “Importantly and fundamentally the business now conducts an inspection of each site before any plans are submitted to council prior to the commencement of any work,” said Magistrate Ardlie.
The conviction highlights the serious impacts of unsafe work practices and especially the need for extra care when working near overhead power lines. Don’t risk getting caught out, be proactive, contact ISOsafe today to book a free advisory meeting 1300 789 132.