A shortcut across a moving conveyor belt was a fatal decision for a worker.

He was watching the conveyor when he noticed a piece of timber fall to the floor instead of into the waste bin. Rather than walking around on a platform to the box, he took an unsafe and forbidden route. He climbed over the guard railing and took a shortcut over the conveyor belt to pick up the piece of timber. He fell onto the conveyor belt and his legs became pinned between the belt and the steel skirting of the conveyor chute. The victim bled to death before he could be rescued.

Investigation of the scene indicated the emergency pull cords used to stop the belt were broken. But it was determined the victim would not have been able to reach them anyway, nor would have had time to so. The investigation also found shortcomings in the first aid system at the site, which caused a delay in getting help to the victim.

Moving machinery such as a conveyor is a death trap. Never enter restricted areas or tamper with moving machinery. Use lockout procedures when necessary. Do not attempt to bypass safety guards, such as the railing in this case. Inspect emergency devices to ensure they are in working order and accessible. This report also points out the importance of maintaining first aid stations, supplies and equipment. It is also a reminder of how important it is to obtain training in basic first aid and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation). You never know when you might have to help someone before medical help arrives.