In a second Alert this week, WorkSafe reminds mine operators about managing the risks associated with working in and around plant on uneven, undulating terrain. This includes the need to inspect the work site before starting work and during work.
While manoeuvring around the off side of the drill, a trainee underground drill operator stepped into a recently completed drill hole collar. While the drill hole collar had been grouted, it was covered by water which hid a previously installed rock bolt.
The rock bolt punctured the worker’s gumboot, penetrated their ankle, and lacerated it. The worker needed medical assessment from an orthopaedic surgeon and received stitches for the laceration.
The Alert identifies the safety issues and provides recommendations on how to control the risks.
Read more: Worker injured by rock bolt puncture at mine site