Following a September 2024 workplace fatality involving a worker crushed and killed by a wind turbine blade, WorkSafe Victoria has issued a Safety Alert highlighting the risks of lifting loads with cranes.
WorkSafe investigations into the incident at the Rokewood windfarm have revealed that the deceased employee was preparing a 79m wind turbine blade to be placed into position by crane. The blade was stored horizontally on the ground in a bracket made up of two clamps linked together by two bolts and two pins. As the upper clamp was removed by the crane, one pin remained in place, causing the bracket and blade to fall over, crushing the employee.
WorkSafe highlights the increased risk involved when loads are prepared for lifting, lifted, lowered and suspended. Employers have a responsibility to eliminate associated risks, so far as is reasonably practicable, and if not possible, then they must reduce the risk so far as is reasonably practicable. Systems of work to eliminate or reduce lifting risks include –
- a sequential process to lifting components and loads
- safe dogging or rigging practices
- lift plans
- delineated and maintained exclusion zones
- clear communication between the crane operator and work crew
- potential hold points
- adequate information, instruction, training or supervision
- lifting equipment that is safe-for-use
Dogging and rigging is high risk work - wherever dogging and rigging is performed, employers must ensure employees hold the appropriate high risk work licence, and must provide employees with information, instruction, training and supervision to enable them to complete their work safely.
Read more: Worker crushed and killed by wind turbine blade | WorkSafe Victoria