JBS Australia Pty Ltd has been convicted and fined $330 000 in the District Court of NSW as a result of a prosecution by SafeWork NSW.
The proceedings arose following a workplace incident on 14 July 2022, when a worker was injured after being struck by a forklift in a chilled storage area for processed meat.
The worker suffered severe injuries to his left leg as a result of the collision.
JBS Australia plead guilty to an offence pursuant to section 32 of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (NSW) for failing to comply with its health and safety duty to workers under section 19(1) of the Act.
The full judgement against JBS Australia can be read on the NSW Caselaw website.
JBS Australia Pty Ltd has the right to appeal against its sentence.
Workers who have concerns about workplace health and safety can anonymously contact SafeWork on 13 10 50 or through the Speak Up Save Lives website.
Injury from mobile plant, vehicles or fixed machinery, including forklifts, remain a leading cause of traumatic injuries and fatalities in NSW workplaces.
SafeWork NSW continues to prioritise the safety of workers operating heavy machinery and workers working near or around mobile plant, vehicles or fixed machinery as listed in its 2025-26 regulatory priorities.
Business owners and workers can access a range of resources to help manage the risks of working with forklifts on the SafeWork NSW website.
Quotes attributable to SafeWork Commissioner Janet Schorer:
"Forklifts are used in construction sites across NSW daily, yet every year they continue to contribute to workplace deaths and injuries that often result in substantial human and financial costs for workers, industry and the community.
"SafeWork NSW remains committed to supporting industry and workplaces in keeping their workers safe and encourages businesses with workers using mobile plant, vehicles or fixed machinery to engage with SafeWork NSW's available guides and resources to help keep their employees safe."
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