AGL Macquarie Pty Limited was fined $450,000 for failing to have a Safe Work Method Statement after a transformer oil cooler exploded at Liddell Power Station, injuring two workers. The blast was caused by a long-standing leak mistakenly believed to be inactive. A 25% fine reduction was granted for a guilty plea. The offence carries a maximum penalty of $1.77 million under the WHS Act 2011, Section 19(1), with duties under Section 32.
Liddell Power Station has four 500 MW steam generator units, each with a turbine and three transformers. In response, AGL proposed a $1.13 million enforceable undertaking featuring safety-focused initiatives.
- Implementing a skills and competency program for workers
- Benchmarking and tracking safety culture
- Providing safety leadership training
- Developing educational materials on electrical arc flash hazards
- Promoting electrical safety awareness in the broader community
- Supporting safety awards and initiatives in the Hunter Region
- Conducting an independent audit program
The undertaking was accepted as the alleged breach did not constitute a Section 31 Category 1 reckless conduct offence, which would have disqualified it.
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REFERENCE
Source: SafeWork NSW
Title: AGL Macquarie Pty Limited
Link: https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/compliance-and-prosecutions/enforceable-undertakings/2018-eu-accordion/agl-macquarie-pty-limited