Cole, Cameron Brandt

Contributing factors

• Inadequate vehicle design - trailer lacked stanchions on driver's side
• Improper load configuration - five pipe racks stacked with only chains and binders for restraint
• No pre-task safety briefing before unloading
• Absence of exclusion zones during unloading operations
• Truck driver not integrated into site safety systems or toolbox meetings
• Truck driver unfamiliar with rig move risk assessments and safe work instructions
• Poor communication of responsibilities between transport division and rig crew
• Inadequate supervision and clarity regarding who was in charge of loading/unloading
• Safety management system focused on drilling operations rather than rig moves
• Misleading categorisation of equipment transfers as low-risk 'snot loads'

Coroner's recommendations

1. That Santos, together with the CSG Industry Leadership Group and the Australian Road Transport Suppliers Association consider the implementation of suitable additional hard barriers to prevent rig equipment from shifting during loading, haulage and unloading, and that provision for such barriers be incorporated into rig move plans and associated risk management documents.
2. That these findings be referred to the National Transport Commission for consideration in the current revision of the National Load Restraint Guide, including whether: (a) that Guide should place more emphasis on specific practices and procedures for the safe unloading of vehicles; (b) provisions for the direct restraint of loads through measures such as posts or stanchions should be mandatory; and (c) Loading and Unloading Exclusion Zones (LUEZ) industry guidelines should be incorporated in the Guide.
3. That the Queensland Government consider whether the National Load Restraint Guide applies to the operation of vehicles on land that is not a public place and, if not, take steps to ensure that its application is extended under relevant chain of responsibility legislation, including the Heavy Vehicle National Law (Queensland).