A recent prosecution involving a Victorian diesel repair business highlights the serious risks and legal consequences associated with inadequate supervision and training of young workers in automotive workshops.
The Incident
In November 2024, a 15-year-old work experience student was severely injured while undertaking a task at a mechanical workshop. The student had been instructed to drain the radiator of a recently running vehicle to check for overheating.
Without direct supervision and lacking adequate instruction, the student accessed the underside of the vehicle and loosened a hose clamp. Because the cooling system had not been properly depressurised, hot coolant expelled under pressure, causing significant burns to the student’s face, chest, and hands. The injuries required multiple skin grafts and resulted in ongoing psychological trauma.
The Court found that the business failed to effectively implement its safety obligations due to:
- A lack of direct supervision of a young and inexperienced worker.
- Inadequate training and instruction on a high-risk task.
- Failure to identify and control hazards, particularly the risks associated with hot pressurised coolant.
- No documented procedures addressing the specific risks for work experience students.
The business pleaded guilty and was fined $30,000, plus costs.
This incident is a reminder that everyday tasks in an automotive workshop can become life-altering without proper controls. For employers, especially those hosting work experience students or apprentices, compliance is not just about documentation, it’s about ensuring safety is actively managed on the workshop floor.
Investing in supervision, training, and clear procedures is not only a legal requirement, but a critical step in protecting young workers and your business.
How we can help
As automotive industry specialists, the MTA can assist members with industry specific safety advice and interpretation of WHS legislation.
If you have any questions in relation to your work health and safety obligations, please contact the MTA Workplace Relations team on 08 8291 2000 or email wr@mtasant.com.au
