Heavy machinery fatally strikes worker

A machine tragically hit and killed an employee.

Authorities recently investigated how a worker became fatally struck by an excavator.

WorkSafe is examining circumstances surrounding the incident which happened at a work site in Otago, about 390km southwest of Christchurch.

“A worker on foot at a contractor’s yard … was fatally struck by an excavator,” a MinEx safety alert said.

“Details have not yet been released and WorkSafe are investigating the incident. While not at a mine or quarry, this incident is a stark reminder of the hazards of people interacting with heavy machinery.”

Investigators made the following recommendations:

• stop operating all mobile plant when people walk in work areas
• separate light vehicles and pedestrians from heavy equipment where possible
• establish operating heavy equipment positive communication with working mobile equipment for anyone who enters the work area.

Click here to read the full safety alert.