BREAKING: The WA Meat Marketing Co-operative (WAMMCO) has been slapped with a staggering $785,000 fine following the tragic death of a foreign national worker at its Katanning abattoir. The incident, which occurred during a routine shutdown operation, involved the Tongan worker becoming “entangled” in machinery, resulting in fatal injuries.
Authorities confirm that the worker was emptying hessian bags of meat meal, each weighing up to 30 kg, into a hopper when he was drawn into a large, unguarded opening of a “cake press” machine with rotating paddles. This horrific incident led to what has been described as “fatal crush injuries,” according to the workplace safety watchdog, WorkSafe WA.
WAMMCO pleaded guilty to causing the worker’s death due to their failure to provide a safe working environment, resulting in the hefty penalty imposed by the Albany Magistrates Court. The co-operative must also cover $5,700 in costs associated with the case.
WorkSafe WA Commissioner Sally North emphasized the urgent need for safety reforms, stating, “The machinery involved in this incident had a large unguarded opening with moving parts inside and no protection for workers.” In response to the tragedy, WAMMCO has since implemented a “post box-style guard” on the cake press to prevent similar accidents in the future.
Reflecting on the incident, North added, “This incident resulted in improvements to safety in this workplace, but at the cost of the tragic loss of a worker’s life.” At the time, a spokesperson for WAMMCO expressed their deep sorrow, calling it a “terrible incident” and extending their condolences to the family of the deceased worker.
This case highlights a significant issue in workplace safety, particularly in the meat processing industry, where compliance with safety standards is critical. WorkSafe WA has reported issuing multiple compliance notices regarding poor guarding and other safety controls at abattoirs across the state, raising alarm over the adequacy of current safety measures.
As investigations continue, industry experts and workers alike are urged to advocate for stricter safety protocols to prevent further tragedies. The impact of this incident resonates deeply, reminding us all of the vital importance of protecting workers in high-risk environments.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
