The Case

WorkSafe Victoria v Heavy Mechanics Pty Ltd (2022)

Heavy Mechanics Pty Ltd is a mechanical firm servicing vehicles in Victoria. In August 2014, Heavy Mechanics serviced a petrol tanker, conducting testing of the tow-eye coupling. A few days later while on route, the prime mover of the petrol tanker became detached from the trailer. The trailer crossed the road, out of the driver’s control, and collided with two oncoming cars, killing three occupants, including a 4-year-old child.

At the time of the incident, the tow-eye coupling that connected the prime mover and the trailer was worn to excess, and had failed under the load.