A dogger and an excavator operator were test lifting a polypipe spool (tee piece) and valve assembly. A worker not related to the activity entered the work area from behind the excavator and threw a rope through an open window of the excavator. This startled the operator. When he asked the rope-throwing worker what he was doing, the worker pulled strongly on the rope, which caught on the excavator's control stick, causing the excavator and its load to slew to the left.
The operator tried to remove the rope from around the control stick. However, the other worker pulled on the rope again, causing the excavator and its load to slew left a second time. The load swung into the dogger's leg, injuring him.
The Royal Flying Doctor Service flew the dogger from site to Perth for medical attention. He later had an operation to repair a crushed artery.
Direct causes
Horseplay caused the excavator and its load to slew unexpectedly.
Contributory causes
- The lift area was not adequately barricaded to prevent unauthorised entry.
- The dogger was in the line of fire.