BUSINESS FINE FOR STEEL RACKING COLLAPSE LEADS TO TRAGIC MAN’S DEATH

In November 2020, a tragic incident occurred at United Steel’s Wigram store in Christchurch when nine tonnes of steel fell and killed Storeman Franchesco Krueger. The incident led to a hefty fine of $330,000 and emotional harm reparations of $100,000.

The incident was investigated by WorkSafe, which identified glaring safety gaps that contributed to the tragic event. Key findings from the investigation include:

• The racking system was not cross-braced or bolted to the floor for stability.
• Regular and effective safety inspections were not conducted.
• The rack design had no professional engineering input.

These failures led to a catastrophic collapse, resulting in Storeman Krueger’s untimely death. United Steel has been sentenced for the health and safety failures that contributed to this incident.

WorkSafe’s Area Investigation Manager Steve Kelly emphasized that “this is a tragic incident that should never have occurred” if proper risk management had been implemented. He advised businesses to conduct regular inspections to detect damage, missing parts, or improper installation early on.

Key takeaways from the investigation:

* Hire a professional engineer: For commercial or industrial racking systems, it’s essential to consult with a qualified expert to ensure stability and safety.
* Fit-for-purpose shelving: Ensure that all shelving is suitable for its intended use in an industrial setting.
* Clear signage: Display clear signs showing the maximum weight that can be safely held by the racking system.
* Regular inspections: Conduct regular checks to detect any potential issues early on.

The manufacturing sector, including metal fabrication, poses a high risk of harm. WorkSafe warned businesses that “they must manage their risks and where they don’t, we will take action.” This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing workplace safety.

In conclusion, the tragic death of Storeman Franchesco Krueger highlights the need for vigilance and proactive measures in maintaining a safe work environment. By implementing these recommendations and taking responsibility for workplace safety, businesses can minimize the risk of similar incidents occurring in the future.

Recommendations for Businesses

To avoid similar incidents:

* Conduct regular inspections to detect potential hazards.
* Implement proper racking system design and installation guidelines.
* Provide employees with comprehensive training on workplace safety procedures.
* Develop a robust incident response plan to address any safety breaches promptly.

By prioritizing workplace safety, businesses can reduce the risk of accidents and ensure a healthy working environment for their employees.

What You Can Do

If you work in an industry where racking systems are used, take immediate action to:

* Review your current racking system design and installation.
* Consult with a professional engineer or expert to ensure compliance with safety standards.
* Display clear signage showing the maximum weight that can be safely held by the racking system.

By taking these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and ensure a safer working environment for yourself and your colleagues.