Media Statement - reported Nhulunbuy excavator bucket incident

NT WorkSafe has received a notification that a worker in Nhulunbuy suffered a crush injury to his leg on Wednesday morning.

The notification was made yesterday by the employer as required by the Territory’s work health and safety laws.

The details reported in the media are incorrect. An excavator bucket did not fall onto the worker’s leg.

NT WorkSafe’s preliminary enquires indicate workers at the worksite had strung up tarpaulin as protection from the wind and rain. Strong wind has blown the tarpaulin against temporary shelving, which has subsequently fallen onto the worker and injuring his leg.

Our enquiry is ongoing and the outcome will determine the appropriate regulatory response.

NT WorkSafe reminds all workplaces to secure materials and equipment on worksites to ensure they are not impacted by strong winds and become a hazard.