RICHARD ANTHONY TURNER · Prevention of Future Deaths report

On 4 February 2014 I commenced an investigation into the death of RICHARD ANTHONY TURNER. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 18 November 2014. The conclusion of the inquest was medical cause of death: 1a) Multi organ failure b) Abdominal sepsis c) Trauma to the pelvis and abdomen due to Industrial accident and short form conclusion: Accidental Death.

Mr Turner was employed as a Slinger and on 10 January 2014 he was working with a co-employee, a Crane Driver. Both men were recognised by witnesses to be suitably qualified and experienced. Both men worked together on a daily basis in the same yard dealing with the same equipment, namely loading and unloading cranes. On 10 January 2014 Mr Turner attached the lifting equipment to the crane jib section and the Crane Operator raised the jib to move it. During the manoeuvre the section fell onto Mr Turner crushing him. He was taken to hospital where he underwent several procedures. Mr Turner died on 4 February 2014.

(1) By working closely with the same person and dealing with the same type of work in the same place, employees can become complacent with regard to health and safety and the risks involved in their work
(2) Lifting Plans were signed by employees dealing with conducting a lifting operation, planning and preparation, supervision requirements, and other safety procedures to be followed which were signed by Mr Turner on 29 November 2011.
(3) There does not seen to be any standard procedure in place to remind employees of these Lifting Plans, risks involved, health and safety issues with regard to the work.
(4) There was evidence of only one “Toolbox Talk” having taken place since the accident.