Media releases
Saxton Fruit served with summons over accident
25 January 2007
The Department of Labour is prosecuting Saxton Fruit Ltd, a Nelson-based company, in relation to an accident in which a female employee was seriously injured when her arm got caught in machinery.
Regional Manager Central Philip Green said the summons were served today at the company’s headquarters at Nayland Road in Nelson. The company is due to appear in court on March 22.
On August 2, 2006, the employee, who is a grader and packer, suffered serious injuries when she was caught by the in running nips of rollers on the conveyor of a bagging machine.
“It would have been an ordeal for the employee, who sustained multiple fractures and horrific injuries to her right arm.
Mr Green said Saxton Fruit had breached section 6 of the Health and Safety in Employment Act, which calls for employers to take ``all practicable steps’’ to ensure the safety of their employees while at work.
“Our investigation showed the company failed to take all practicable steps to guard the machinery. This accident could have been avoided by the employer taking a few, simple measures.
“Employers need to realise the importance of monitoring and controlling hazards in the workplace, and making sure their employees are informed of these hazards, to avoid accidents such as these happening.”
The Department is not able to provide any more information or comment further as the matter is now before the courts.
ENDS
