Hazard Alert- NetWizz Bird Netting Applicator Fatality
Incident
A 42 year old man was fatally injured when he became entangled in a net that he was retrieving from vines using a NetWizz - Bird Netting Applicator.
Circumstances
The victim had completed the retrieval of the net, turned the spreading arms to the travel position and was preparing the net to be transported.
Whilst he was working with the net the spindle started rotating, tipping him onto the ground where the end of the
Investigation
The Department of Labour’s investigation determined that the slot in the latch plate of this machine could fail to fully engage with the fixed bolt on the frame when the sensor latch lever is pulled.
The investigation also determined that the external hydraulic power from the tractor and the spindle motor were both engaged when the accident happened. If the hydraulic power is turned off or the spindle motor is disengaged then the net cannot start rotating.
Department of Labour Advice
To avoid other incidents, suppliers, owners and operators of
NetWizz – Bird Netting Applicators should:
- Always turn off the hydraulic power to the NetWizz before
exiting the tractor; - Ensure the bolt on the frame is fully engaged in the latch
plate slot; and - Always disengage the spindle motor immediately after
locking the sensor off.
Which industries/sectors or matters will this information be relevant to?
Wine and fruit growers and contractors.
Note: This material has been prepared using the best information available to the Department of Labour at the time of publication. Information may change over time and it may be necessary for you to obtain an update. This material is also only intended to provide general advice and does not constitute legal advice. You should make your own judgement about action you may need to take to ensure you have complied with your workplace health and safety obligations under the law.
