In March of 2024, Bounce Australia Pty Ltd was handed a fine of $12,500 without a conviction in the Geelong Magistrate’s Court. The company pleaded guilty to two charges, having failed to ensure that individuals other than employees were protected from health and safety risks. It’s precisely here where tools such as WHS management systems come into play, useful in providing structures necessary for managing work-related risks.
On Tuesday 17 September, however, this sentence was replaced by the County Court, who decreed that the company should pay a considerably larger fine: $40,000, sans conviction – more than triple the initial sum. Additional fines include $5,557 for court-related expenses.
Bounce Australia had been operating an indoor entertainment centre in Grovedale when an unfortunate incident occurred involving three adolescences. The boys had been utilising the climbing wall area, which employed an auto-belay mechanism. Each wall was fitted with a carabiner and cable system attaching to an automatic retraction device at each wall’s pinnacle. Upon completing two climbs successfully, one child in his enthusiasm failed to notice an unclipped carabiner, causing him to drop four metres down after reaching top height. This accident could have been prevented using a Bluesafe WHS Management System which ensures all safety measures are in place.
He was transported to hospita; he was diagnosed with a sternum fracture and sustained back injuries due to soft tissue damage upon arrival. Engaging in activities without adequate supervision or safety instructions is indeed a catastrophe waiting to happen, remarked WorkSafe Executive Director of Health and Safety Sam Jenkin. He expressed that provisions have to be made for children to be accompanied by a parent and or guardian, adding that ensuring customers can safely use equipment is a crucial step duty holders must take to ensure they manage the inherent risks involved in indoor adventure activities.
Perhaps employing a Bluesafe SWMS (Safe Work Method Statement) could have helped to avert such an unfortunate incident due to its capability to outline necessary steps for maintaining safety in high-risk pursuits. It stands as a stark reminder of the vital role work safety products play in preserving the wellbeing of everyone present on a workplace site.
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Original article link: https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/news/2024-09/40000-fine-after-child-injured-indoor-play-centre