Warnings go unheeded
NSW WorkCover is investigating a go-kart accident that occurred on Sunday in which a driver was strangled after his scarf became entangled in a rear axle.
The 23 year-old driver suffered neck and throat injuries, according to WorkSafe.
“Patrons should not wear scarves or loose clothing and ensure long hair is secured to reduce the risk of getting it caught in the vehicle," said general manager of WorkCover's Occupational Health and Safety Division, John Watson.
In April a woman who was wearing a headscarf was killed in a similar accident.
WorkCover had issued a safety alert at the time warning patrons to avoid wearing loose clothing and reminding operators to cover all moving parts of the vehicle.
“Operators must ensure that correct guarding is in place on all equipment and karts should be well-maintained,” said Watson.
The safety regulator is devising a go-kart compliance program, said Watson.
"WorkCover is putting go-kart operators on notice that it is conducting a compliance program across all go-kart operations as part of its plant verification program," he said.