Case studies
Bookmark this siteCase studies
Retail industry
The incident
A worker received an electric shock while using a vacuum cleaner in a retail store. The investigation found that the vacuum cleaner had not been regularly inspected and tested which contributed to this occurrence.
What should the employer have done?
The employer should have ensured that the vacuum cleaner was inspected and tested by a competent person on a regular basis to ensure that it was safe for use.
Employers need to provide induction and training to employees who are new to the task to ensure they use the equipment safely.
This training should provide sufficient information to workers on how to use and maintain the vacuum cleaner, including checking the vacuum for obvious faults or safety concerns prior to use.
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
