An electric shock which cost an Auckland scaffolder both his arms could have been avoided if his employer had paid closer attention to who was authorised to do the work, a WorkSafe investigation found.
Jahden Nelson was dismantling scaffolding in Massey last year when a steel pole he was holding made contact with an overhead power line.
He received high voltage electrical burns to his upper and lower limbs, including an exit wound of the charge through his left foot.
Both arms had to be amputated to the upper biceps and he will require daily assistance with routine activities for the rest of his life.
His employer, CPA 2022 Limited, was sentenced for health and safety failures at the Waitakere District Court today.
The fine, which could have been up to $1.5m, was reduced to $0 due to the company's inability to pay. Details of the reparations were suppressed by the court.
How the accident happened
The worksite had been given a Close Approach Consent, mandatory when work is being done near overhead powerlines, and it required the crew that put the scaffolding up to be same crew that took it down.
WorkSafe found that none of the four-man dismantling crew had been involved when the scaffolding was put up.
The initial crew received a briefing on how workers could safely operate under high-voltage lines, but the dismantling crew did not.
WorkSafe area investigation manager Paul West said companies need to make sure expert information is shared with all workers that need it.
“Anyone working in or around electricity, especially high voltage lines, needs to be aware of the specific requirements that come with Close Approach Consents. Lines companies can assist with the consent process if needed.
“For a seemingly simple communication breakdown to have such far-reaching consequences is horrendous."
West acknowledged the "ongoing struggle" for Jahden to adapt to a different way of life.
"His attitude, bravery, and determination to keep going is a testament to his strength of character."
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