A detailed report by the Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC) has highlighted significant safety issues in the stevedore industry following two work-related deaths in New Zealand. The report revealed that safety regulations are inadequate for a sector with the second highest number of workplace deaths in the country.
The report identified several key issues contributing to insecurity in the industry. Lack of regulatory oversight, lack of safety standards at the sector level and lack of implementation of proper safety management oversight and monitoring are some of the major concerns raised. The report also highlights deficiencies in the security systems of both the victims’ employers, Wallace Investments Limited (WIL) and Lyttelton Port Company (LPC).
The first incident occurred at the Port of Auckland, where a stevedore, Atiroa Dwighty, was crushed to death by a 40-foot container. The report indicated that Dwighty had positioned himself under the container to fix a latch problem and his position was unknown to colleagues before the container was lowered, leading to his tragic death.
A second incident occurred at Lyttelton Harbour, when Don Grant, a coal signalman, fell from a high platform and sustained fatal injuries. The report highlighted the lack of robust processes to ensure the effectiveness of risk management controls which contributed to the unfortunate incident.
The TAIC report drew attention to inadequate oversight of stevedore operations, lack of good practice guidelines and a lack of comprehensive visibility and information sharing platforms in the industry. He stressed the need for proactive safety measures and better regulation to address the poor safety record in the stevedoring industry.
In conclusion, the report highlights the urgent need to improve safety standards and regulations in the New Zealand stevedoring industry. It highlights deficiencies in safety systems, inadequate supervision and lack of detailed procedures at the departmental level. Efforts should be made to ensure that employees are fully aware of the hazards associated with their work and that effective control measures are implemented to prevent future tragedies.
Definitions:
– Stowage: Loading and unloading of goods from ships.
– TAIC: Transport Accident Investigation Commission, an independent agency responsible for investigating traffic accidents and improving safety.
proof’s:
– Source article containing report findings
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