Livingstone Shire Council Faces Court After Worker’s Serious Tree Branch Injury

Livingstone Shire Council has pleaded guilty to breaching the Work Health and Safety Act following a serious workplace accident . The incident occurred while three experienced council employees were clearing a fallen tree on the Zilzie esplanade. As branches were being cut, the tree trunk rolled unexpectedly, causing a supporting limb to strike one of the workers in the face. The impact resulted in severe head and facial fractures, loss of consciousness, and lasting physical and psychological damage.

At the time, only the chainsaw operator wore a hard hat, and no formal risk assessment was conducted. Prosecutor Kelli Lemass emphasized that the council failed to implement safety measures like mandatory protective gear and documented risk assessments, which could have prevented the injury. The council’s barrister defended the workers’ experience and planning, noting procedural improvements introduced since, including a PRISM safety system and updated PPE policies. The magistrate adjourned the case, with sentencing to be determined later.

This incident highlights the importance of adhering to safety protocols and conducting thorough risk assessments, even when workers are experienced. Implementing such measures can prevent serious injuries and ensure a safer working environment.