A NSW court has imposed an A$80,000 fine on Forbes-based H P Woods (Holdings) as a result of a fatal accident involving a female employee who died riding a quad bike that struck an exposed section of concrete pipe.
The 19 year old – who was not wearing a helmet – sustained serious head injuries when the quad bike overturned.
The court heard the bike’s owner’s manual said a helmet should be “worn at all times”, while a clearly marked manufacturer’s plate stated “always use an approved helmet and protective gear.”
The court also was told the defendant had not made helmet-wearing mandatory for employees when operating quad bikes.
The judge found the risk to safety was “reasonably foreseeable,” adding “simple and remedial measures were available.”