NJ Steel Fabrications has been fined $40,000 and ordered to pay $8,375 in costs after a worker fell and was seriously injured due to lack of fall protection on a Geelong construction site. The company pleaded guilty to multiple charges related to failing to provide a safe workplace and proper training.
In January 2022, a worker fell almost 4 metres, sustaining severe injuries, because there were no fall prevention measures like guardrails or safety mesh. WorkSafe inspectors found that the company had not prepared or updated a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) and had failed to train workers in height safety. Even after the incident, the company's director continued to work without fall protection.
The regulator has emphasised the need for employers to implement proper safety measures and training when working at heights, following the hierarchy of controls to prevent falls. Employers must also ensure SWMS are prepared and adhered to for all high-risk construction work, revising them as necessary to maintain safety standards.