Bakery charged with workplace manslaughter

Risham Nominees Pty Ltd is facing two charges of workplace manslaughter under section 39G(1) of the Occupational Health and Safety Act for allegedly engaging in conduct that was negligent and a breach of an applicable duty owed to a person that caused the death of that person.

The company is also facing two charges under section 21(1) of the OHS Act for failing to, so far as was reasonably practicable, provide and maintain a safe working environment.

It's alleged the company contravened section 21(2)(a) of the OHS Act by failing to provide a safe system of work and regulation 327(1) of the OHS Regulations by failing to prepare a safe work method statement before commencing high risk construction work.

Risham Nominees is facing an additional two charges under section 26(1) of the OHS Act for failing to ensure that a workplace under its management and control was safe and without risks to health.

The charges relate to the death of a 53-year-old labourer who fell approximately four metres onto a concrete floor while removing suspended ceiling panels at a Reservoir warehouse.

The matter is listed for a filing hearing at Melbourne Magistrates' Court on 24 May 2023.