Worker injured when steel pipe fell

Possible control measures to prevent similar incidents

A person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) has a duty to ensure workers and other people are not exposed to health and safety risks, including the risks associated with loading and unloading trucks.

The most effective control measure is to eliminate the hazard or hazardous work practice associated with workers accessing a trailer when loading or unloading. Higher order risk controls include designing plant or structures to be without risks to the health and safety of any person.

This can include designing or modifying the trailer so the worker does not need to be near the trailer during the loading and unloading process (this could also be considered an engineering control). For example, trailers fitted with stanchions and cradles to support pipes and prevent unexpected movement.

In situations, similar to the incident, where materials are being loaded onto a truck, a safe system of work should be implemented and maintained. This could include, but is not limited to:

• creating a loading area away from other pedestrians or work activities
• where practicable, arrange the load so workers do not need to climb onto the trailer
• inspecting and preparing the area. Confirm that the worksite is free of debris, holes and objects that could obstruct the loading process, or cause slips, trips and falls. Ideally the lay down area should be located on firm, level ground.
• separating people from loading areas using barriers, fences or other similar options. For example:
  • where possible, workers should not access the loading area when mobile plant are operating during the loading or unloading process
  • creating dedicated waiting areas for truck drivers (consider a separate area) and ensuring the driver does not leave the area
  • during loading, safe, controlled access zones should be identified and established. Caution cones or delineators must be placed to delineate and identify the exclusion zones.
• providing workers with instruction, training and supervision on safe work procedures. Training and instruction should be provided to workers by a competent person in an easy-to-understand manner.
• confirming workers involved in the activities are aware of the weight of the stock to be loaded.
• consultation regarding the work and the related risks must occur between the PCBU and workers and others whose health and safety is likely to be affected.

Any remaining risk must be minimised with suitable personal protective equipment. For example:

• use hard hats, steel cap boots, eye protection, hearing protection and high visibility vests
• safety footwear should be:
  • suitable for the type of work and environment
  • comfortable with an adequate non-slip sole and appropriate tread
  • checked regularly to ensure treads are not worn away or clogged with contaminants.

Administrative control measures and PPE rely on human behaviour and supervision. If used on their own, they are least effective in minimising risks. The control measures you put in place should be reviewed regularly to make sure they work as planned.