A worker is in a serious condition after he was struck by sheets of reinforcing metal at the bottom of a 5m deep excavation.
Emergency crews were called to the worksite on Broughton Rd, Strathfield, in Sydney’s inner west, just before 9am on Wednesday. A team of specialist doctors and paramedics treated and sedated the man, who had suffered a serious head injury and broken bones in his face. The medics then worked with firefighters and a police rescue team to get the man out of the pit.
Officials said a ladder truck was used during the “delicate and challenging” extraction. The emergency workers also stabilised the sides of the pit to prevent more debris from falling. The man, who was in his 50s, was then taken to Westmead Hospital in an unknown condition.
Another man was also injured in the incident. He suffered a cut to his head and was sent to the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital.
“Incidents of this nature are a reminder of the need to ensure the highest standards of safety are adhered to at construction sites where heavy materials and equipment are involved,” NSW Ambulance Inspector Darren Eller said.
He praised the level of co-operation with police and firefighters.
“The cohesion between all three agencies today at a very challenging scene was central to the safe and successful treatment, extrication and transport of the injured worker,” Mr Eller said.
SafeWork NSW has been contacted for comment.
Source: News.com.au
