SafeWork NSW Inspectors will visit the Wagga Wagga region next week to ensure businesses are managing risks associated with loading, unloading, and working around vehicles, including forklift safety.
Minister for Fair Trading Eleni Petinos said performing tasks around vehicles including loading, unloading, and securing a load is the leading cause of non-driving serious injuries and fatalities in road transport and logistics.
“Inspectors will be in town from Tuesday 2 to Thursday 4 August, visiting Wagga workplaces that have forklifts or companies sending and receiving goods,” Ms Petinos said.
“Inspectors will be specifically looking at traffic management plans, separation of workers and plant such as truck and forklifts and the immobilisation of vehicles, as well as focusing on forklift issues including licencing, attachments, maintenance, and safe use.
“Many businesses are struggling with staff shortages and having to stretch their resources, so the temptation to cut corners can sometimes have tragic consequences.
“Our message is clear – think about safety before you operate a forklift, check the area is clear of pedestrians, the load is secure, and you have enough room to use the forklift safely.
“These SafeWork NSW Inspector visits are all about safety and ensuring all workplaces manage risks appropriately, and protect their workforce from potential injury,” Ms Petinos said.
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