Lawson Grains Pty Ltd has been convicted and fined a total of $210,000 in the Industrial Court of NSW as a result of a prosecution by SafeWork NSW.
The proceedings arose from an incident on 11 December 2023 when a worker was collecting and analysing grain samples using a vacuum connected to a petrol-powered generator. The worker attempted to refuel the generator by pouring petrol into it from a jerry can which resulted in a fire.
Lawson Grains Pty Ltd pleaded guilty to an offence pursuant to section 32 of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011. The offence related to failure to comply with the duty to ensure the health and safety of workers as required under section 19(1) of the Act.
The full judgment against Lawson Grains Pty Ltd is published on the NSW Caselaw website at SafeWork NSW v Lawson Grains Pty Ltd - NSW Caselaw.
Lawson Grains Ltd has the right to appeal against the sentence.
Workers who have concerns about workplace health and safety can anonymously contact SafeWork NSW on 13 10 50 or through the Speak up Save lives.
Business owners and workers can access a range of resources to help manage the risks of working with plant, machinery and equipment on the SafeWork NSW website.
SafeWork Commissioner Janet Schorer said:
"Risk control measures when working with plant and fixed machinery are well known."
"SafeWork NSW reminds all businesses of their duty to ensure their workplaces are safe for employees and contractors.
"Having an awareness of and assessing risks, along with implementation of safe systems of work, is key to reducing risk and harm in workplaces."
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