Christchurch concrete manufacturer Busck has been made to pay $NZ 130,000 over the death of a 47-year-old who was crushed by a forklift last year in February.
Radio NZ and others report that Busck Prestressed Concrete was ordered by the Christchurch District Court yesterday to pay a $70,000 fine and $60,000 in reparations over the accident.
Worksafe New Zealand called the collection of safety issues “completely unacceptable” and “a tragedy waiting to happen”.
The victim, Anthony Wells, died within minutes, according to TVNZ.
TVNZ also notes that, “The issues included the fact that the headlights, front indicators, brake lights, front hazard lights, horn, screen washers and front wipers were not working.” Its tyres were also four different brands inflated at four different pressure levels.
The telehandler was configured as a forklift, and was driven at the time without its field lights on by a trainee with no qualifications.
"This is a 6.5 tonne vehicle used to move heavy concrete railway sleepers around – it should have been properly maintained to ensure it was safe to use,” said Keith Stewart, WorkSafe New Zealand's Chief Investigator, according to Fairfax Media.
"Busck Prestressed Concrete also failed in its duty to maintain the lighting to ensure it was safe to work in dark conditions. This accident happened at 5:30 in the morning – if the lights weren't adequate it should not have had its workers out in the yard."
Image: PHOTO NZ