Safety Alert: Working Safely Around Agricultural Equipment – Hobbs Hoist Fatal Incident
Fatal accident involving a Hobbs Hoist prompts WorkSafe to highlight design flaws and emphasise safety guidelines for agricultural equipment.
The following is an abridgement of an article originally appearing on the WA Dept of Commerce website.
A tragic incident occurred when a farmer was fatally injured by a Hobbs Hoist, a common piece of agricultural equipment used to lift and support bins and crates. The hoist failed, causing a seeder bin to crush the worker underneath.
WorkSafe inspectors identified several design flaws and risks associated with many of the inspected Hobbs Hoists, including narrow bases, missing locking devices, and an absence of safety instructions.
The department emphasises that ensuring the safety of workers when using agricultural equipment like Hobbs Hoists is paramount. By following the appropriate guidelines and recommendations, employers can significantly reduce the risk of fatal incidents and create a safer working environment.
