A worker at Brisbane Airport was rushed to hospital after being injured in a machinery accident while handling baggage on the tarmac.
About 8:00 p.m. last 24 December 2024, the incident occurred when an employee of Swissport was running baggage loading machinery. Emergency services arrived fast at the scene, and the worker with severe leg injuries was sent to Royal Brisbane And Women’s Hospital.
What Happened?
The accident occurred during one of the airport’s busiest times of the year. Swissport, which oversees ground-handling operations, attested that the employee was utilising baggage equipment at the time of the incident.
Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ) is now looking into the matter. Swissport and Brisbane Airport Corporation have both stated that they are reviewing their safety procedures and are fully cooperating with the investigation.
According to a Swissport representative, employee safety is their first concern. They are completely supporting the injured worker and their family and are extremely concerned about this incident.
Safety Measures Under Scrutiny
The incident has highlighted the importance of stringent safety protocols for high-risk airport operations. Machinery accidents, while uncommon, serve as a reminder of the potential hazards faced by ground-handling staff. This event has prompted discussions about improving training programs and ensuring regular maintenance of equipment used in daily operations. Swissport has indicated it will review its current safety procedures as part of the investigation process.
Brisbane Airport Corporation, which oversees the broader airport infrastructure, expressed its concern and affirmed its commitment to a safe working environment. Peter Doherty, the airport’s representative added that such occurrences highlight the necessity of ongoing attention to detail and cooperation among all parties involved.
Ongoing Investigation
WHSQ is working to determine exactly what went wrong and how similar incidents can be avoided. Both Swissport and Brisbane Airport Corporation have stressed their commitment to maintaining safe working conditions. Initial findings from the investigation are expected to guide future safety enhancements.
As investigations continue, the community’s focus remains on the recovery of the injured worker and any safety improvements that may result from the inquiry. Meanwhile, employees have been reminded of available support services to address concerns about workplace risks or provide counselling for those affected by the incident.
Published 27-Dec-2024
