WA Abattoir Fatality: $785k Fine Highlights Guarding Failures

On 28 August 2025, WorkSafe WA announced that the Western Australian Meat Marketing Co-operative (WAMMCO) had been fined $785,000 plus costs following a fatality at its Katanning Abattoir in 2022. The case centred on the death of a worker who was pulled into a piece of unguarded machinery.

What Happened

The fatal incident involved a “cake press” machine that lacked adequate guarding. While clearing a blockage, the worker was caught in the moving parts and fatally injured.

In its investigation, WorkSafe identified not only the specific breach at Katanning but also a broader pattern of guarding issues across the abattoir industry. This led to a round of compliance inspections and notices issued at multiple facilities statewide.

The Court’s View

The penalty handed down to WAMMCO reflects the seriousness of failing to control well-known mechanical risks. The judgment reinforces that the hazard of moving plant isn’t novel — guarding requirements are basic and long-established.

My Take

I have to say, this case really hammers home a frustrating reality. We are still seeing workers killed because guarding is inadequate. Guarding is WHS 101 — it’s the kind of control measure you’d expect to be in place without debate, particularly in high-risk industries like meat processing.

The fact that WorkSafe had to roll out inspections across the state after this incident tells me it wasn’t just one company dropping the ball. It suggests systemic complacency in the sector. When you’ve got one fatality and then multiple notices issued elsewhere, it’s a red flag that poor guarding standards are ingrained rather than isolated.

Lessons for Industry

• Guarding is non-negotiable: moving parts must be physically isolated from workers.

• LOTO must be enforced: no access to plant unless energy sources are locked and tagged out.

• Industry-wide vigilance: if your competitors are being caught out, assume regulators will be looking at you next.

• Directors and managers are on notice: a $785k fine makes the cost of prevention look very small.

Final Word

This case is another reminder that fatalities often stem from the simplest failures: missing guards, ignored SOPs, routine risks taken for granted. The consequences are devastating, and the penalties are escalating. If you’re operating plant, don’t wait for an inspector to show up — audit your guarding now.