Grimley, Scott Robert
Deceased
Scott Robert Grimley
Demographics
29y, male
Date of death
1998-01-21
Finding date
2006-12-21
Cause of death
electrocution
AI-generated summary
Scott Robert Grimley, a 29-year-old qualified electrical fitter/mechanic, died from electrocution on 21 January 1998 while working on overhead power lines from an elevated work platform. The coroner found that although Grimley held relevant electrical qualifications, he lacked adequate training and experience in operating elevated work platforms near live electrical lines. Critically, there was no competent ground observer/safety supervisor present during the work, contrary to legislative requirements. The coroner determined this was a preventable death and recommended mandatory regulated training and licensing for elevated work platform operators working near electrical lines, plus supervision guidelines. A criminal charge of manslaughter was committed against the site supervisor Peter John Janssen for failing in his duty of care.
AI-generated summary and tagging — may contain inaccuracies; refer to original finding for legal purposes.
Error types
Contributing factors
- inadequate training in elevated work platform operation near live electrical lines
- lack of experience working with live overhead power lines
- absence of competent ground observer/safety supervisor at work site
- insufficient supervision of worker
- lack of safety equipment (insulating mats) readily available at site
- limited training on dead pole only, no training on live electrical lines
Coroner's recommendations
- Introduction of regulated training course and licensing for persons operating elevated work platforms, with specific relevance to working in close proximity to overhead electrical wires
- Introduction of guidelines for supervision of elevated work platform operators before they are permitted to operate platforms solely or on their own
- Queensland Police Service ensure all necessary investigations are duly undertaken by appropriate personnel and all relevant prosecutions are commenced in timely fashion to avoid expiration of limitation periods
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