Source: SafeWork NSW
Keks Projects Pty Ltd (Keks) has been fined $180,000 after a worker fell 4.5 metres down an excavation pit, sustaining a fractured right ankle and several fractures to his pelvis.
The Court heard that at the time of the incident, the temporary edge protection along the excavation pit the worker was leaning against gave way, leading to the fall. The risk of a fall was known to and foreseen by Keks, and there were simple and effective steps available to eliminate or minimise the risk.
Keks has the right to appeal the sentence.
Falls from heights in the construction industry are depressingly common, often with devastating and long-lasting impact on the workers.
We are urging business to be on guard, see the risks, and implement effective steps so that all workers can go home safely at the end of their working day, every day.
For information and guidance on working safely from heights in the construction industry, visit https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/hazards-a-z/working-at-heights
