Company fined after worker's arm crushed in machine

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A South Island company has been fined $52,000 and ordered to pay reparation of $15,000 after one of its workers suffered injuries when his arm became stuck in a rock-crushing machine.

William Clark was working as a labourer at a plant run by a company associated to Solly's Freight Ltd, Golden Bay Dolomite Ltd, when the incident happened in August last year, Worksafe NZ said in a statement.

Mr Clark was trying to clear debris away from a conveyor belt on a rock crusher when his glove got caught and his arm was dragged into the drum roller.

His arm was crushed and he suffered a dislocated shoulder and a broken arm.

Solly's Freight pleaded guilty to two charges under the Health and Safety in Employment Act of failing to take all practicable steps to ensure Mr Clark's safety at work.

The company was sentenced today in Nelson District Court.

WorkSafe New Zealand's chief inspector Keith Stewart said the rock crusher should have had guards to prevent access to the dangerous parts of the machine while it was operating.

WorkSafe NZ banned the company from using the machine again until guards were put on it.

"All companies - particularly those with dangerous machinery - need to make sure they systematically identify and manage health and safety risks," Mr Stewart said.