The Importance of Proper Supervision for Young and Inexperienced Workers: Lessons from Recent Prosecutions
At Performance Advantage, we emphasize the critical importance of proper supervision and training for young and inexperienced workers. Recent prosecutions of Queensland meat manufacturing companies underscore this necessity. These cases serve as a stark reminder that ensuring workers are adequately supervised until they complete their training is not just a best practice but a legal obligation.
Case 1: WorkSafe Queensland v Gotzinger Smallgoods Pty Ltd (2024)
In this case, the Court heard that Gotzinger Smallgoods required workers to operate a ‘de-linker’ machine, which separates long chains of sausages into individual sausages. The machine’s instructions clearly stated that workers should not place body parts into the de-linker while it was operational. However, the plastic safety cover over the exit chute could be opened during operation.
The incident occurred when an experienced worker, who had been trained and signed-off to use the de-linker, demonstrated how to feed sausages into the machine. The experienced worker lifted the cover and reached inside the exit chute to clear a blockage, an unsafe practice that the less experienced worker then mimicked the next day. The untrained worker’s wrist was caught in the rotating blade, resulting in a severe laceration that required surgery.
During sentencing, the Magistrate noted the company’s early guilty plea, clean record, and considerable community involvement. However, the risk was deemed serious and foreseeable, and the incident could have been prevented with simple safety measures. The defendant was fined $70,000.
Case 2: WorkSafe Queensland v Australian Food Corporation (2024)
The second case involved a 16-year-old worker with a labouring background who began working for Australian Food Corporation Pty Ltd, trading as Tyson Foods Australia. After three weeks on the job, he was assigned to clean around the chute of the patty-making production line.
Lacking proper supervision and instruction, he adopted an unsafe cleaning practice, which resulted in the shearing of his forefinger to the first knuckle. The company pleaded guilty and was fined $75,000.
Human Resources Solutions for Small Business
These cases highlight the importance of human resources solutions that focus on comprehensive training and supervision. For small businesses, this is especially critical. Proper training and supervision not only ensure compliance with safety regulations but also protect young and inexperienced workers from avoidable injuries.
At Performance Advantage, we provide HR for small business, offering tailored human resources solutions that address the unique challenges faced by smaller enterprises. We help businesses implement robust training programs and ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.
Key Takeaways
- Compliance: Ensure all workers, especially young and inexperienced ones, are properly supervised and trained in compliance with safety regulations.
- Adapting to Changes: Regularly update training procedures to reflect changes in equipment and industry standards.
- Licence Renewals: Keep all necessary licences and certifications up to date.
Investing in comprehensive human resources solutions and regular reviews can significantly reduce risks and enhance workplace safety. At Performance Advantage, we offer the expertise and support needed to maintain high standards in HR for small business. Contact us today to learn how we can help your business thrive while keeping your workforce safe and compliant.
You can reach us on 0408 897 079 or at suzanne@performanceadvantage.com.au.
We look forward to hearing from you!
