April 18, 2007
A prohibition notice halting all operations at the Frame and Door Factory in
Kimberley's industrial area was issued, following an explosion that has left
two workers seriously injured. Preliminary investigations by the Department of
Labour inspectors revealed that welding work was done on a conveyor chain and
below it was an open dip tank containing flammable substances such as paint
mixed with thinners. The dip tank was not well covered and a welding spark
ignited it, causing an explosion.
Further investigations revealed that the moving parts of the conveyor chain
were covered after the incident had happened. There was no supervision over
control of the conveyor, no proper communication system between the controller
and other users of the conveyor and that the point of control was easily
accessible to any employee or any other persons.
In 30 March 2006, the same employer was found to be in contravention of the
Occupational Health Act (Act 85 of 1993) and was issued with a contravention
notice with an instruction to put his house in order within two months. At his
request, an extension was granted. A follow up inspection was conducted of
which the employer still failed to comply with all the requirements of the
notice. Following the explosion this week on Monday and the subsequent injuries
of workers, the Department of Labour has now recommended to the Director of
Public Prosecutions that the employer be prosecuted.
Enquiries:
Zolisa Sigabi
Cell: 082 906 3878
Issued by: Department of Labour
18 April 2007
