FATAL ROOF FALL: NURSERY CHARGED

WorkSafe has charged a nursery and horticulture supply company in Monbulk after a worker fell through a shed roof and died.

Van Berkel Distributors Pty Ltd faces three charges under section 21(1) of the Occupational Health and Safety Act for failing, as far as reasonably practicable, to provide and maintain a safe working environment.

It is alleged the company breached regulation 327(1) of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations by performing high risk construction work without a safe work method statement (SWMS).

WorkSafe also alleges the company breached section 21(2)(a) of the OHS Act by failing to provide and maintain a safe system of work; and regulation 44(4) of the OHS Regulations by failing to use a fall arrest system.

The charges come after the death of the 66-year-old maintenance manager who fell through the roof in June 2022. The case will be heard at Melbourne Magistrates' Court on February 28, 2024.

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