A caravan manufacturer has been fined $60,000 following a serious workplace incident that resulted in a worker sustaining significant internal injuries, reinforcing the importance of proper training and workplace safety practices.
JCP Group Pty Ltd, which trades as Great Aussie Caravans and operates out of Campbellfield, pleaded guilty to breaching its obligations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004.
What happened
On 9 May 2023, a factory worker was on the production floor when a co-worker used a compressed air hose in what was described as a workplace prank.
The co-worker placed the nozzle of an air compressor against the worker’s clothing and released pressurised air for several seconds.
The worker experienced immediate pain and internal injury. He was later taken to The Northern Hospital, where he underwent surgery for a perforated intestine. He remained in hospital for eight days and is expected to require further treatment.
Safety failures identified
The Court accepted that the company failed to provide adequate information, instruction and training around the safe use of compressed air equipment.
This included failing to:
- Inform employees of the risks associated with using compressed air on the body
- Provide appropriate training on safe use around others
- Clearly instruct workers not to use compressed air on themselves or others
- Ensure safe cleaning practices, including the use of low pressure and appropriate protective equipment
The company also failed to notify WorkSafe Victoria of the incident as required, including failing to provide a written notification within the required timeframe.
The outcome
The Court imposed:
- $50,000 fine for failing to provide a safe working environment
- $10,000 fine for failing to notify the regulator
- $5,042 in costs
No conviction was recorded, taking into account the company’s guilty plea and prior good character.
The Court noted that without the guilty plea, the penalty could have been as high as $200,000 with conviction.
A reminder for employers
While the incident was described in part as a “ridiculous act”, the Court made clear that responsibility ultimately rests with the employer.
The Court also acknowledged that even where training is provided, it may be disregarded by employees. However, employers are still required to take all reasonably practicable steps to minimise risk and ensure a safe working environment.
The injured worker continues to experience both physical and psychological impacts, including concerns about future employment.
Why this matters
This case highlights how unsafe use of workplace equipment can lead to serious and lasting harm.
Employers should ensure that:
- Workers are properly trained and supervised
- Clear safety instructions are provided and reinforced
- Hazardous behaviours are actively discouraged and addressed
When these obligations are not met, the consequences can be significant for both workers and employers.
Speak to our team
If you have been injured at work or are unsure about your rights, the team at Arnold Thomas & Becker Craigieburn can assist with advice on workplace injury claims.
You can contact Arnold Thomas & Becker on 1300 333 300 for a confidential discussion about your situation.