New Plymouth case highlights need for stringent safety processes

The Department of Labour says the conviction of a New Plymouth electrical construction company following the death of line mechanic Chris John Petersen in June 2007 is a serious reminder of the need for constant vigilance and attention to safety processes in the workplace.

Tenix Alliance New Zealand Limited appeared in the New Plymouth District Court yesterday for sentencing, charged under sections 6, 7(1)(a) and section 13 (a) of the Health and Safety in Employment Act. Appearing for sentencing, District Court Judge Roberts fined the company a total of $62,500. Tenix Alliance had previously pleaded guilty to the charges.  Judge Roberts made a non-publication order in regard to reparations to the deceased man’s family.

Mr Petersen was electrocuted while connecting a cable onto a live low voltage overhead conductor. Judge Roberts found that Tenix Alliance had not taken all practicable steps to ensure there were effective methods for identifying hazards to employees at work.

These steps included the completion of a hazard identification of the work the lines crew was performing prior to Mr Petersen’s death.

Judge Roberts also ruled that Tenix Alliance had failed to ensure a trainee electrician was being adequately supervised.

The Electricity Engineers Association (EEA) publication ‘Guide to Supervision for safety 2006’ states that ‘all employees being trained, or not assessed as competent in work activities/tasks, should be directly and continuously supervised.’

The Department of Labour said the importance of correct procedures in hazard identification could not be underestimated. Employers have a clear obligation to ensure the health and safety of their employees is protected to the highest possible standards.

ENDS

Media contact: Rowan Saker 04 915 4716 or 0274 422141

To the journalist: Please note that health and safety services, formerly referred to as Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) should now be referred to as the Department of Labour.