The NSW Government says several deaths at workplaces over the past week serve as a sad reminder to employers and businesses about safety.
In 2022, there was approximately 1 workplace fatality a week in NSW but in the past 4 days 5 people have died at NSW workplaces, including:
- On 29 January, a 77-year-old man was visiting a factory in Griffith where he was struck by a forklift. The man was rushed to hospital where he died in the following days.
- On 31 January, a 28-year-old man died after falling when he was electrocuted conducting air conditioner repairs in Engadine.
- On 31 January, a 51-year-old man died after he lost control of a side-by-side all-terrain vehicle and was thrown while on a cotton farm in Narromine.
- On 1 February, a truck driver was located unresponsive on the ground of a loading bay in Dubbo.
SafeWork is also investigating a 1 February fatal motorbike incident on a property 120km east of Tibooburra.
SafeWork has also been notified of several workplace incidents which resulted in serious injuries including an incident on 27 January where a construction worker fell around 3-4 metres from a scaffold in Eastwood, resulting in serious head injuries.
Business owners must ensure workers, especially those involved in high-risk areas such as working at heights, electrical and moving plant and machinery, are properly trained and instructed on how to do their job safely.
Workers who have concerns about workplace health and safety can anonymously contact SafeWork on 13 10 50 or through the Speak Up Save Lives app.
SafeWork has developed a toolkit for business owners so they can ensure they have workplaces that promote effective work health and safety.
Further details about workplace safety including working with electricity, forklifts, farm safety and working at heights in construction can be found on the SafeWork NSW website.
Minister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis said:
“Five deaths in 4 days is a tragedy and my condolences are with families, friends and colleagues of those who have sadly lost their lives.
“Following a well-deserved break, employees should feel they can come back to work and be safe.
“Business owners must ensure their employees are always practicing safe work practices, and, as we head into February, these deaths serve as a tragic reminder to make sure workplaces are up to date with safety equipment and compliance.”
