A Worksafe investigation is underway at Port Chalmers after an incident that saw a straddle container carrier topple over on the container wharf yesterday (Wednesday July 1).
The driver of the straddle sustained injuries and was hospitalised. Local fire crew and St Johns Ambulance were quickly on the scene after Port staff immediately responded to the incident.
“Our immediate concerns are with the driver of the straddle and his family,” says Port chief executive Geoff Plunket. “Latest reports from the hospital are positive.”
A full investigation is underway. The straddle carrier involved is less than 18 months old and was being operated normally at the time of the incident, while weather and surface conditions were good.
The Container Terminal halted operations after the incident and will remain closed until 0700 Thursday morning so the investigation can be completed.
“An incident like this has a huge impact on staff and is very distressing for all concerned. It is important to gather as much information as possible, as soon after the event as we can,” says Plunket.
The cause of the incident was not immediately apparent and further details would be released when they became available. Port Otago has arranged for EAP professional support services to be available to Port Otago staff.
