SafeWork SA issues safety warning after worker injures hand in conveyor belt

SafeWork SA Issues Safety Warning After Worker Injures Hand in Conveyor Belt

SafeWork SA has issued a safety warning to workplaces, urging employers to ensure machines are properly guarded following an incident where a worker's hand became trapped in a moving conveyor early last month.

Rescue crews freed the injured worker from the plant equipment involved in the incident. An investigation into the matter remains ongoing.

Machine Guarding Reduces Hazardous Plant Risk

SafeWork SA Acting Executive Director Glenn Farrell said properly fitted guards help protect employees from serious injuries caused by hazardous plant.

"Moving parts in plant can present significant risks in the workplace, and machine guarding is an effective and reasonably practicable measure to control those risks," he said.

Conveyors and other plant items with exposed moving components rank among common hazards found on industrial sites. Farrell's comments highlight why guarding remains a frontline control measure against crush and entanglement hazards linked to hazardous plant operations.

Understanding Conveyor-Related Risk

Unguarded plant poses a serious risk to hands, limbs and clothing, particularly where moving parts sit within reach of operators. Businesses should regularly review plant risk assessments to identify hazards before they cause harm.

For guidance on managing these risks, employers can also refer to our related coverage on a similar SafeWork SA safety warning issued to fruit and vegetable businesses after a worker injury, which outlines comparable plant safety concerns.

Broader Health and Safety Considerations

Protecting worker health remains central to SafeWork SA's ongoing compliance efforts. Employers investing in maintained guarding systems, alongside comprehensive safety software, strengthen their capacity to identify and control emerging hazards before injuries occur.

Reviewing an electrical safety policy alongside mechanical guarding procedures can further support a holistic approach to plant safety across a site.

Key Takeaways for Employers

• Inspect conveyor and plant guarding regularly for wear, damage or bypassed safety mechanisms.
• Train workers to recognise hazards associated with moving machine parts.
• Document risk assessments and corrective actions for all plant equipment.
• Ensure emergency stop mechanisms remain accessible and functional at all times.

Employers seeking further resources may find our Workplace Safety Rules template useful for reinforcing plant safety expectations across teams, while an Electrical Safety Checklist can complement broader guarding inspections.

For more information, visit the SafeWork SA website, or reach out via our support page for assistance with compliance documentation.