Paceway Mitsubishi in Osborne Park has been fined $30,000 in the Perth Magistrates Court after a car detailer was seriously injured when he was hit by a car driven by an unlicensed apprentice.
The fine was imposed for failing to provide a working environment in which its employees were not exposed to hazards, and by that failure causing serious harm to an employee.
Anton Graeme Cruikshank was cleaning the boot of a car at the dealership when he was hit by another car and crushed.
He suffered several fractures to his pelvis and lower legs.
The car was being driven by a 17 year-old apprentice who didn't have a licence.
The Perth Magistrate's Court was told Paceway had a practice of allowing apprentices who only held their learner's permit to drive vehicles by themselves and unsupervised around the workplace, including the main driveway and areas accessed by pedestrians and other cars.
It was also told Paceway had been aware of prior incidents where the apprentice had been involved in two separate car accidents at the workplace.
WorkSafe WA Commissioner Nina Lyhne said, "It is clear that Paceway Mitsubishi did not take seriously their obligation to provide a safe working environment."
"As a result, the car detailer has received multiple injuries."
"This is even more serious given that the apprentice had a history of involvement in accidents at the site, yet the company had made no attempt to intervene.
"All employers need to be aware of the need for adequate supervision and training."
