20 May 2025
SafeWork SA has lodged criminal proceedings against AGL Torrens Island Pty Limited, alleging the company exposed workers to unsafe levels of lead during the de-commissioning of its ‘A’ power station.
SafeWork SA launched the action in the South Australian Employment Court on 16 May 2025 following a lengthy and complex investigation.
It is alleged that AGL Torrens Island Pty Limited engaged the workers to de-commission the ‘A’ power station between October 2022 and April 2023.
This involved de-energising, or preparing to de-energise, cabling throughout the power station, allegedly exposing the workers to lead or lead dust.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) was provided – but allegedly did not include a full-face respirator.
Five workers allegedly recorded an elevated blood lead level subsequent to the work.
It is alleged that AGL Torrens Island Pty Limited’s failure to comply with its health and safety duty exposed workers to unsafe levels of lead.
SafeWork SA has charged AGL Torrens Island Pty Limited with a Category 2 offence under section 32 of the Work Health and Safety Act 2012.
The maximum penalty for a Category 2 offence for a body corporate is $1.5 million.
As the matter is before the courts, SafeWork SA is unable to provide any further information at this time.
