A Territory worker suffered broken teeth, a punctured lung and rib fractures after falling 3.6 metres from a forklift’s mesh storage cage last month, sparking a safety alert from NT WorkSafe.

In an ongoing inquiry into the incident, NT WorkSafe said the worker’s weight may have shifted in a mesh storage cage they were in that was raised on forklift tynes, causing the worker to fall and land on concrete, resulting in serious injuries including a perforated lung, broken teeth, rib fractures and serious lacerations inside the mouth.

The alert, which outlines working recommendations for forklifts, reminded both business owners and workers to use only forklift attachments designed and manufactured following the Work Health and Safety (National Uniform Legislation) Regulations 2011.

The inquiry also found out that it is possible that the mesh storage cage used was not fit for purpose as a workbox for workers and was not properly secured to the forklift. It is also possible that the worker was not wearing a safety harness, NT WorkSafe said. The forklift operator was not in the forklift when the accident happened.

NT WorkSafe has urged forklift operators and those working with such machinery to ensure proper working precautions such as using trained personnel and correct equipment specifications, using proper safety gear, and ensuring appropriate supervision of workers at all times.

A division of the Department of Attorney-General and Justice, NT WorkSafe assists businesses and workers to understand their obligations under work health and safety in work areas, rehabilitation and workers’ compensation in the Territory.