Worker Injured by Aircraft Propeller – Mallee, SA – Not specified

Introduction
A worker was injured after being struck by the propeller of a single-engine Cessna aircraft at a worksite in South Australia’s Mallee region. The incident occurred in September 2023, according to an online judgment referenced in the report. The worker sustained injuries described as “severe life-changing injuries” and was transported to Adelaide for emergency surgery. The South Australian Employment Tribunal convicted Parilla Premium Potatoes and fined the company $360,000.

Details of the Incident
According to the judgment, 40-year-old employee Krunal Shah was asked to board a single-engine Cessna aircraft at the company’s worksite to inspect a new onion processing line.

The aircraft was flown by the company’s managing director and licensed pilot, Mark Pye. The judgment stated Mr Pye started the Cessna’s engine prior to Mr Shah approaching the aircraft.

The judgment stated Mr Shah approached from the wrong side of the plane and began to walk around the front of the aircraft, where he misjudged the diameter of the propeller blades and was “forcefully struck multiple times”, causing “catastrophic injuries”. The tribunal was told Mr Shah suffered “traumatic injuries” to his right arm, including multiple fractures to his forearm and hand, as well as partial finger amputations.

Emergency Response

• Mr Pye “immediately” powered down the aircraft’s engine and provided first aid while another employee called emergency services.
• Not specified
• Emergency services were called to have Mr Shah flown to Adelaide for emergency surgery.

Regulatory Investigation
The report states SafeWork SA investigated and the company was charged with one offence under the Work Health and Safety Act.

• Not specified
• Not specified

Company / Union Response
In a statement to the ABC, a Parilla Premium Potatoes spokesperson said: “The safety and well-being of all Parilla Premium Potatoes employees is paramount,” and said all employees have access to safety policies and procedures via the Employment Hero App. The report also states the company committed to undertaking an independent audit of its current safety system.

Conclusion
Parilla Premium Potatoes has been convicted and fined $360,000 by the South Australian Employment Tribunal in relation to the incident. The report states the worker remains an employee of the company and that the company has committed to an independent audit of its current safety system.