Department investigates KZN worker’s death

Released by Department of Labour on 13 January 2004

The Department of Labour inspectors are investigating a case of negligence following the death of a worker at a manufacturing company in Isipingo south of Durban in KwaZulu-Natal last Friday.

The 21 year-old worker was retrieving residue plastic from behind a heavy-duty cutting machine when his hand got stuck and the machine cover crashed onto his chest.

The machine is used to cut hard-file plastic covers used in footwear manufacturing. The inspectors have issued the employer - Palm Technique - with a prohibition order that effectively halts all operations within the company?s division pending investigations.

Labour inspectors are continuing with investigations into the cause of the accident and to establish whether the incident was the result of negligence.

Minister of Labour, Membathisi Mdladlana expressed concern at what seems to be a growing trend of occupational accidents and lack of safety in workplaces.

Minister Mdladlana has emphasised that safety for workers and the general public remains a priority for the ANC government in the new year and the Department will continue to conduct inspections to ensure compliance at all times.

?We will not rest until we know for sure that businesses and organisations respect the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations and anybody who fails to comply will not escape the course of the law?, Minister Mdladlana said.

The Minister also expressed his condolences to the family of the deceased worker.