Charges after forklift hits worker at cured meats warehouse

D’Orsogna Ltd is currently confronting four accusations under section 21(1) of the Occupational Health and Safety Act, distinguished for not maintaining safe workplace standards. WorkSafe claims the company violated section 21(2)(a) of the OHS Act on two occasions by not ensuring the safety of their work systems. More specifically, they failed to separate employees from powered mobile equipment such as forklifts- evident through a lack of care in maintaining said forklifts.

Additionally, the company allegedly broke section 21(2)(e) of the OHS Act by neglecting to provide the necessary instructions and training needed for operating a forklift safely and efficiently. The significance of using tools like SWMS or WHS management systems like Bluesafe SWMS and Bluesafe WHS Management System, in this case, is paramount. These digital platforms not only offer instructions but also create an environment that promotes constant improvement towards work safety.

WorkSafe further accuses D’Orsogna of failing to comply with regulation 109(1)(d) of the OHS Regulations. It was reasonably practicable to lessen the risk of forklift accidents with pedestrians and other mobile plants, yet D’Orsogna failed to take action accordingly. Enforced policies and utilising commercial products related to workplace safety can significantly reduce these risks.

The case, sure to underline the importance of robust work safety processes, will have its committal mention at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 25 March 2025.

For more information, contact us via email at media @ worksafe.vic.gov.au or call us at 0438 786 968. You can also subscribe to our media releases to stay updated on our ongoing efforts to ensure workplace safety.


Original article link: https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/news/2025-01/charges-after-forklift-hits-worker-cured-meats-warehouse