A Victorian metal fabrication company has been fined $30,000 after a 17-year-old apprentice sustained serious burns when his clothing caught fire during welding operations.
The Incident
The incident occurred in October 2023 at a factory in Kyabram when sparks from welding ignited the apprentice’s clothing while he was fabricating a metal footing cage. The first-year apprentice ran outside and attempted to extinguish the flames by rolling on the ground before returning inside for assistance. Co-workers used a hose to put out the fire.
The apprentice was airlifted to Melbourne and spent one month in hospital. He underwent multiple surgeries including skin grafts to his stomach, chest, upper arms, neck, back, buttocks and hips. The worker continues to experience physical limitations and scarring.
Investigation Findings
WorkSafe Victoria’s investigation found that at the time of the incident, the apprentice was wearing a welding helmet, long-sleeve shirt and company-supplied hoodie made from a cotton-polyester blend. The investigation determined this hoodie did not provide adequate protection for welding tasks.
Key findings included:
- CND Contractors Pty Ltd failed to implement and enforce a clothing policy for welding operations
- No leather apron, leather clothing or boiler suit was provided to the apprentice
- Inadequate supervision was provided for welding tasks
- One month prior to the incident, the same apprentice’s hoodie had been damaged by welding sparks
Legal Outcome
CND Contractors pleaded guilty to failing to provide and maintain a safe system of work and failing to provide adequate worker supervision. On August 13, the company was sentenced in Shepparton Magistrates’ Court to a $30,000 fine without conviction and ordered to pay $4,365 in costs.
Safety Requirements
WorkSafe Victoria emphasizes that employers must ensure welding operators:
- Hold appropriate certification or training
- Receive adequate supervision from certified personnel
- Use proper personal protective equipment including fire-resistant clothing
- Work in dry conditions away from flammable materials
- Have access to emergency equipment and procedures
The case highlights the particular duty of care employers have toward young apprentices who rely on employer guidance for workplace safety.
