A Villawood-based stonework importing company has been fined $200,000 after a sub-contractor was partially crushed and left with permanent injuries.
Minister for Better Regulation Matt Kean said Cosentino Australia Pty Limited was sentenced in the Sydney District Court after the company was found guilty of failing to ensure the health and safety of its workers.
The incident in Prestons saw a 34 year old truck driver suffer serious injuries when he was struck by stone slabs that fell from an A-frame on a truck after the restraints were removed during delivery.
“When unloading the truck, nine slabs toppled away and fell on the driver, resulting in a significant head injury,” Mr Kean said.
“Tragically, the man now suffers from a permanent cognitive impairment.”
The court heard that the slabs were unevenly stacked, contravening the company’s Operational Risk Prevention Plan.
Mr Kean said every workplace has a responsibility to ensure the health and safety of its workers, whether they are employed directly, or as a sub-contractor.
“Crucial workplace safeguards failed in this case, and now this driver has to live with these injuries for the rest of his life,” Mr Kean said.
“My number one focus is ensuring that every worker who heads off to work in the morning returns home safely to their family at night.
“Workplace incidents have a devastating impact on colleagues and families. This penalty should remind all businesses and employees that worker safety must be a priority.”
Last year SafeWork NSW successfully prosecuted 34 offenders and issued 218 penalty notices.
Cosentino Australia has the right to lodge an appeal.
