$270K Fine After Worker Crushed by Magnetic Kit: Training and Gear Matter—Apparently That’s News
- Safety Jon
- Mar 4, 2025
- 2 min read
A magnetic device literally crushed a worker at Bhullar Steel Australia Pty Ltd, resulting in a $270,000 fine. The NSW District Court didn’t mince words. Judge Andrew Scotting pointed out that the PCBU was aware of the need for proper systems and inspections, but surprisingly, they did not take action. They failed to train staff on selecting appropriate equipment or put in place processes for it. Not overly shocking how that turned out.
How It Fell Apart
The wrong equipment got chosen. Why? No one bothered to train workers or establish a selection process.
Inspections? Not a single thought was given to inspections. Systems? Weak, unreliable, not worth the paper they weren’t printed on.
Result? A person crushed. It's a straightforward concept. Some people just need to see bone-breaking to feel motivated.
Lessons (If Anyone Cares)
Training Isn’t Optional If you can’t pick the right gear, you’re not ready. Training exists for a reason—ignore it, expect consequences.
Process Over Guesswork A system helps avoid knee-jerk choices. Without it, you cross your fingers and hope your magnetic crane doesn't become a magnet for flesh.
Inspections Are Your Backup If inspections are “poorly addressed”, so is your commitment to safety.
Fines Won’t Fix Bodies $270k might sting, but it won’t mend a broken spine. Prevent the crash, or pay. Eventually.
Duty Isn’t Selectable Australian WHS law says you must ensure systems, training, safe equipment, and regular checks are “reasonably practicable”, not “justifiable if the boss objects”.
Conclusion
It's staggering that it keeps getting worse. Bhullar Steel had all the legal obligations, and still, a worker was crushed by a magnet. You’d think that’d be the last warning needed—but no, here we are, another headline about an avoidable injury.
There—harsh, but let’s hope someone internal remembers that safety is cheaper before the fine lands.
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