A contract engineer visited site to assess a reported defect on a wheeled loader. After completing the required tests and repairs in the workshop, the machine was returned to its operator to ensure it was in working order. However, the contractor realized that an additional check was necessary and requested the machine be brought back to the workshop. By this time, the operator had already parked the machine in the external parking area. The contractor decided to complete the final check there.
With the final check completed, the contractor packed his tools into his van parked nearby and climbed back into the loader's cab to retrieve his keys. Whilst descending to ground level, he twisted his ankle. Believing it to be a minor sprain, he returned to the site office to complete his documentation and prepare to leave. An initial assessment concluded he was safe to drive home. However, a subsequent medical assessment and x-ray revealed that he had sustained a fracture to his ankle.
KEY FINDINGS
Risk assessment - Risk Assessments & Method Statements were supplied prior to the work, and a permit to work was completed by the site team. Additionally, the contractor completed a pre-task risk assessment, but this was not reviewed by the site team.
Experience - The contractor was approved and competent for the work.
Workplace layout/design - The agreed work location changed from the workshop to the external mobile plant parking area, which has slightly uneven ground conditions
