Makmur Enterprises Pty Ltd was sentenced at Collingwood’s Neighbourhood Justice Centre on Wednesday after pleading guilty to a single charge of failing to provide or maintain plant that was safe and without risks to health.
The company was also ordered to pay costs of $4,331.
The Court heard that it was common for dough to become stuck in the dim sim machine, which had two power-driven mechanical mixing arms.
In May 2020, a labour hire worker injured his finger while operating the machine.
A WorkSafe investigation found the machine was missing guards to control the risk of entanglement or crush injuries and safety interlock devices were inactive.
WorkSafe Executive Director of Health and Safety Narelle Beer said the company had a history of flouting workplace safety laws.
“Makmur Enterprises has been prosecuted by WorkSafe on three other occasions following injuries caused by machine entanglements, with previous fines totalling $145,000.”
“The company has flagrantly put its workers at risk of harm by ignoring basic safety measures such as adequate guarding and safety interlocks.”
To manage risks when working with machinery employers should:
- Identify hazards, assess the risks associated with them and eliminate or control those risks by isolating them or using an alternative.
- Train staff in the safe operation of machines and equipment and provide written procedures in the worker’s first language.
- Develop and implement safe operating procedures in consultation with employees and health and safety representatives.
- Ensure safety guards and gates are compliant and fixed to machines at all times.
- Regularly service and inspect machines and equipment.
- Place signs on or near a machine to alert employees of the dangers of operating it.
