Equipment failed without notice due to inadequate hazard evaluation, an investigation found.
A side discharge conveyor suddenly collapsed without warning at an undisclosed screening plant on 4 August 2022.
Officials examined the site and discovered supporting structure failed at the midpoint, collapsing the discharge end of the conveyor.
“A steel diversion chute had been retrofitted to the discharge end of the conveyor several months before the incident. Clay material had also built up inside the chute [and both] the extra weight of the steel chute and built-up material caused the failure,” WorkSafe Victoria said in a safety alert.
“The steel diversion chute was not supplied, installed or checked by the manufacturer of the plant.”
They made the following recommendations:
- implement a change management process
- consult personnel and engage both qualified and certified engineers
- conduct risk assessments during plant commissioning and post-modification
- engage original equipment manufacturers before planning or performing plant modifications
- regularly train employees during hazard identification, risk assessment, isolation procedures and human barrier controls.
- implement risk controls and establish and implement a safety management system, with both a comprehensive and integrated management system for all risk control measures.
Click here to read the full safety alert.
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