A metal tubing manufacturer has been fined after a worker sustained serious leg injuries when he attempted to load a 350–400kg steel coil into a machine.

Using a forklift to carry out the task, the worker dismounted the forklift to inspect the position of the coil on the tine. The coil fell off and broke his left tibia and fibula.

The worker did not have a forklift licence.

SafeWork NSW prosecuted and fined Trans Vent Spiral Tubing Pty Ltd $90,000 for two breaches of the state’s Work Health and Safety Act 2011.

Executive Director of Investigations and Enforcement for SafeWork NSW, Valerie Griswold, said it is essential to have a safe work method in place to avoid situations involving uncontrolled and unsecured loads.

“These coils are very heavy and become a serious danger when they’re in the air,” Ms Griswold said.

“However, the risk could have been eliminated with adequate safe work planning.

“One way to avoid having an unsecured load is to use a jib or sling and ensure only workers with a valid high-risk licence can operate a forklift.”