Near miss incident underscores the risks posed by unsecured lifting jibs

Near Miss Incident Underscores the Risks Posed by Unsecured Lifting Jibs

A recent near miss incident in South Australia has drawn attention to hazards linked to unsecured lifting jibs on forklifts, highlighting significant risks for businesses that rely on this type of lifting equipment.

According to SafeWork SA, a worker narrowly escaped injury from being struck by a load of steel after an improperly attached lifting jib slipped off the tynes of a forklift, landing on nearby plant equipment and causing damage.

What the Investigation Revealed

An investigation conducted by the safety watchdog uncovered several concerning gaps in equipment management and workplace practice, including:

• Absence of the lifting jib's securing chain
• Inadequate training on safe equipment operations
• Ineffective communication among workers regarding hazardous conditions

These findings point to broader hazards that can arise when equipment management protocols aren't followed consistently across plant operations.

SafeWork SA's Safety Recommendations

SafeWork SA urges businesses to check lifting jibs for signs of damage before use and confirm equipment is properly attached to forklifts, in line with manufacturer guidelines. Strong equipment management practices remain essential for reducing hazardous outcomes on site.

Effective equipment management also depends on documenting incidents when they occur. Businesses can strengthen their approach to safety by using an Incident Register to record near miss events and identify hazards before they escalate into serious harm.

Why Equipment Management Matters

Robust equipment management isn't just about compliance — it's about protecting health and preventing avoidable harm to workers. Consistent inspection routines, proper training, and clear communication form the foundation of sound equipment management across any plant environment.

For organisations seeking to formalise their approach, a documented near miss workplace incident reporting process supports better equipment management and reinforces accountability across teams.

Building a Safer Equipment Management System

To reduce hazardous conditions linked to lifting equipment, businesses should consider:

• Regular equipment management reviews, including pre-use checks on all lifting jibs and attachments
• Training programs that reinforce safe plant operations for every worker
• Clear reporting channels for hazards identified during daily equipment management routines
• Reference to manufacturer specifications for all lifting equipment before deployment

Strengthening equipment management in this way supports both worker health and long-term operational reliability, reducing the likelihood of future incidents involving unsecured lifting jibs or similar plant equipment.

For further guidance on managing equipment-related hazards, explore SafetyDocs' Incident Management resources, or review the Incident Reporting Policy for structured guidance on documentation and follow-up.

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