Melbourne train operator charged over high voltage incident - 19.3.18

A railway operator has been charged after an apprentice was burnt while working on overhead powerlines.

Metro Trains Melbourne Pty Ltd was on Friday charged with failing to maintain systems of work that were safe and without risks to health.

WorkSafe Victoria charged the Melbourne train operator following an investigation into an incident in which an apprentice received flash burns to his face and hands while working on overhead powerlines between Box Hill and Blackburn train stations in April 2016.

According to the safety watchdog, the apprentice was working on a 22,000-volt line from an elevated work platform when it was prematurely energised from a central control room, resulting in an explosion.

The apprentice remained on the platform as the line was energised again, resulting in a second explosion before he could be brought to safety.

The charges were filed in the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court.

Souce: OHS News