Karagata Aust Pty Ltd faces three charges under section 21(1) of the OHS Act for failing to provide a safe and health-risk-free workplace.
The incident that led to these charges occurred when a worker was installing a walkway beneath a new baggage conveyor on the mezzanine level of Terminal 2 at Melbourne Airport. The worker fell through a ceiling panel, plummeting approximately four meters to the ground, resulting in severe injuries, including spinal, pelvic, and rib fractures, necessitating hospitalisation.
Allegedly, Karagata failed to comply with regulation 327 of the OHS Regulations by neglecting to prepare a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) for high-risk construction work and by failing to ensure that the work adhered to a SWMS.
WorkSafe further alleges Karagata breached section 21(2)(e) of the Act by failing to provide employees with essential information, instruction, and training on fall protection measures.
Additionally, it is alleged that the company violated regulation 44 of the Regulations by not implementing appropriate measures to reduce the risk of falls, such as using a fall arrest system.
The case is scheduled for a hearing at Melbourne Magistrates' Court on 27 October 2023