Case studies
Bookmark this siteCase studies
Manufacturing industry
The incident
A worker received partial amputation and laceration injuries to his hand after it came into contact with the moving blade of a table saw. The investigation found that the blade was not guarded and that the worker did not receive any training in the safe use of the machine.
What should the employer have done?
The employer should have ensured that the machine was safe prior to use and this includes checking that guarding and emergency stops are present and working correctly.
Employers need to provide induction and training to workers who are new to the task to ensure that they use machinery safely.
This training should provide sufficient information to workers on how to use and maintain the table saw, including checking to make sure that guarding and emergency stops are present and checking for obvious faults or safety concerns prior to use.
Safe Operating Procedures should be developed for the safe use and maintenance of the machine.
If a worker finds a fault or safety concern with any equipment they should report it immediately to their employer, and the equipment should be removed from use. Workers also have the right to refuse to use equipment that they have identified as being unsafe.
Last updated: 21 October, 2010
Telephone 1300 365 255
Employers and employees within South Australia can contact their local SafeWork SA office, or the Help Centre, for the cost of a local call. This service is available Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 8.30am to 5.30pm, and on Wednesdays from 8.30am to 4.15pm (excluding public holidays)
Email: help@safework.sa.gov.au
