WorkSafe's probe identifies fundamental failures on KiwiRail's part
KiwiRail has been fined $220,000 for breaching workplace health and safety laws after an employee fell from a 10-metre height while installing a telecommunications pole.
The agency, one of New Zealand's largest employers, was also ordered to pay reparations of $28,500, according to WorkSafe.
The fine comes after a KiwiRail employee suffered major injuries after falling from a 10-metre height while installing a telecommunications pole in Whanganui in October 2023.
The employee suffered a torn artery, a torn liver, a broken sternum, a punctured left lung, nine fractured vertebrae, and five fractured ribs. He also underwent surgery to remove blood clots in his legs.
"The man's remarkable recovery took 10 months, and he has since returned to work," WorkSafe said in its media release.
The failures identified included a lack of specific risk assessments, dedicated procedures, and employee training in risk assessment for complex work at height.
A fall arrest system was also installed but not in use at the time of the incident, while climbing poles on the pole were installed incorrectly.
"When you introduce new infrastructure, you can't assume existing procedures will be adequate. Businesses need to step back, conduct a full risk assessment, and consider the changes required," said Nigel Formosa, WorkSafe's central regional manager, in a statement.
KiwiRail was charged under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015,...
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