The NSW Resources Regulator has commenced an investigation after 2 workers were injured while inflating and inspecting a semi-trailer truck tyre for an air leak. The tyre’s side wall ruptured, causing an explosive release of air pressure.
The quarry workers were carrying out maintenance after a flat tyre was identified on the inside rear axle of a B-double semi-trailer truck on 8 February 2024.
The workers removed the tyre and wheel assembly and visually inspected the tyre for damage and leaks in the workshop when the tyre exploded. Two workers suffered injuries including perforated eardrums, hearing loss, cuts and bruises and an eye injury.
The Regulator is investigating the cause and circumstances of the incident and will explore the systems of work of the quarry governing the inspection, maintenance, repair, leak detection and inflation of truck tyres.
The quarry and other parties are assisting with the investigation.
A report will be published when the investigation is concluded. Quarry and mine operators are reminded of their duty to identify hazards and manage risks to health and safety in accordance with provisions of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety (Mines and Petroleum Sites) Act 2013 and Regulations and should develop procedures for detecting tyre leaks and detection.
Read the full Investigation information release (PDF, 589.21 KB)
