Injuring mate while horsing around with chainsaw costs worker $4000

A Napier forestry worker has been ordered to pay $1500 reparations to a workmate who he slashed on the legs while “horsing around” with a chainsaw. The forestry worker, Haze Kingi Nukunuku, was also fined $2500.

Mr Nukunuku yesterday pleaded guilty at the Napier District Court to a charge brought by the Department of Labour under the Health and Safety in Employment (HSE) Act.

The charge followed an incident in September 2007 when Mr Nukunuku tried to scare his workmate by putting the brake on his chainsaw, then running the blade across the back of his workmate's legs. Unfortunately, the chain brake failed and the workmate suffered serious lacerations to both legs. He required seven stitches in one leg and 11 stitches in the other.

"Under the HSE Act both employers and employees have a legal obligation to ensure the safety of those at work, said Department of Labour Regional Manager (Waikato/Eastern) Ona De Rooy. “The fine and reparation awarded in this case sends a strong message to employees that “horsing around” with tools like chainsaws is dangerous and can result in prosecution,” Ms De Rooy says.

“It is also a reminder that people should always stay a safe distance away from their workmates while operating a chainsaw.”

Information on the safe use of chainsaws and safety in the forestry industry is available at http://www.osh.dol.govt.nz/order/catalogue/index.shtml#fe