New Switch Electrical, a solar panel installer, was found guilty of safety violations on two occasions where employees worked at heights without fall protection. The first incident occurred on June 15, 2021, when workers installed panels without fall protection, leading to WorkSafe intervention. The company later complied by purchasing fall protection and preparing a safe work method statement (SWMS).
On July 5, 2022, inspectors observed employees working at a height of 2.7 meters without fall protection. One worker slipped in windy conditions, prompting inspectors to direct them back to ground level. The director had earlier left the site knowing about the lack of protection and instructed employees to continue.
The company failed to implement a safe work method statement (SWMS) or provide adequate supervision. Due to their failure to engage with court proceedings and safety obligations, they were found guilty in absentia.
The magistrate highlighted the seriousness of the violations, leading to a fine of $40,000 and additional costs for the company.