URGENT UPDATE: A commercial laundry service, Ensign Services (Aust) Pty Ltd, has been fined $270,000 following the tragic death of a driver who fell from a truck’s elevated tailgate. This serious incident occurred at the company’s facility in Dandenong South in June 2023. The case highlights critical workplace safety failures that led to a devastating outcome.
In a ruling handed down on October 15, 2023, at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court, Ensign Services pleaded guilty to failing to maintain a safe working environment. The company was found responsible for the fatal incident that occurred when the driver fell 1.2 metres onto a concrete floor after the truck’s tailgate was lowered to facilitate loading and unloading of linen trolleys.
WorkSafe investigators revealed that the truck involved did not have essential fall protection handrails installed at the time of the accident. Ensign Services acknowledged that it was “reasonably practicable” to have installed safety features, such as swing gates, at the loading dock to prevent such incidents.
The driver, a 55-year-old man, was rushed to the hospital but sadly succumbed to his injuries. WorkSafe chief health and safety officer Sam Jenkin emphasized the importance of adhering to safety protocols: “Since 2021, 39 workers across nearly a dozen industries have tragically lost their lives in falls from height. We have the tools and education to prevent every single one, but it’s up to employers to ensure all appropriate safety measures are in place.”
The company was also ordered to pay an additional $8,500 in costs. The deceased driver was employed by Rodrigues Transport Pty Ltd, which is now facing its own charges related to this incident. Rodrigues Transport is scheduled to appear at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on November 11.
This case serves as a stark reminder for all employers about the critical need for safety measures in the workplace. The ongoing investigations and court proceedings will likely shed more light on the responsibilities of companies in ensuring the safety of their workers. As this story develops, it underscores the urgent need for enhanced safety regulations across industries to prevent future tragedies.
