A worker at the Royal Australian Mint in Canberra narrowly escaped being crushed to death when a three-tonne coin press collapsed without warning, an incident that has led to a significant fine and a major safety overhaul.
Near-fatal incident at the Mint
On 22 March 2022, a maintenance fitter was performing routine checks on a coin press when the machine's 2.7-tonne upper frame suddenly fell. The worker, who was standing partially under the press at the time, managed to leap out of the way just as the frame crashed onto the platform where he had been standing. The impact was so severe that it damaged the concrete floor.
The incident was investigated by WorkSafe ACT, which found that the press had been modified without proper engineering review. The machine's original locking mechanism had been removed, and a temporary system using a hydraulic jack and a steel pin was in place. That system failed, causing the collapse.
Safety failures and fine
The Royal Australian Mint pleaded guilty in the ACT Magistrates Court to a charge of failing to comply with health and safety duties. The court imposed a fine of $140,000, plus $5,500 in costs. WorkSafe ACT inspector Glenn Farrell said the incident could have been fatal and criticised the Mint for not having adequate risk controls.
"This was a near-miss that could have easily resulted in a fatality," Farrell said. "The Mint had a duty to ensure that all plant and equipment was safe, and they failed in that duty. The modifications made to the press were not properly assessed, and workers were exposed to a serious risk."
Immediate response and changes
Following the incident, the Mint immediately isolated the press and launched its own investigation. The machine has since been decommissioned, and the Mint has implemented a new system for managing modifications to all plant and equipment. This includes mandatory engineering assessments and sign-off before any changes can be made.
A Mint spokesperson said the organisation deeply regretted the incident and had cooperated fully with the investigation. "The safety of our staff is our highest priority, and we have taken extensive steps to ensure that such an event cannot happen again," the spokesperson said. "We have reviewed all of our maintenance procedures and introduced additional safeguards."
Broader implications for workplace safety
The case has highlighted the dangers of modifying industrial equipment without proper oversight. WorkSafe ACT has urged other businesses to review their own safety systems, particularly when changes are made to machinery. The fine sends a clear message that safety breaches will be met with significant penalties.
The incident also underscores the importance of a safety culture that encourages reporting and assessment of risks. The Mint, which produces Australia's circulating coins, has said it will continue to work with regulators to maintain the highest safety standards.
