The Case

WorkSafe Qld v Logan City Council

In 2022, Logan City Council operated an aquatic centre where pools would be cleaned using a vacuum manoeuvred around the bottom of the pool by an aluminium pole attached to it. The vacuum was connected by an electrical lead and battery. Above the back of the pool, there were uninsulated overhead powerlines. Due to the level of the voltage, the powerlines required an exclusion zone of 3 metres for untrained persons.

On 20 February 2022, a worker employed by the Council to be a lifeguard and supervisor was cleaning a pool using an aluminium pool pole. The pole was extended and was approximately 1 metre from the edge of the pool. The pole connected with the overhead powerlines, causing the worker to receive an electric shock. As a result, the worker was unable to move for 5–10 minutes, and he suffered minor electrical burns to his leg and foot.