Gully Public House and Garden charged by Safework SA after worker allegedly engulfed in flames in June 2023

A northern suburbs hotel has been charged after a worker was allegedly engulfed in flames and suffered horrific burns while refuelling a decorative fireplace.

The Gully Public House and Garden has been charged by Safework SA after a worker was significantly burned refuelling a fireplace. Picture: Supplied

An Adelaide hotel has been charged after a worker suffered horrific injuries while refuelling a decorative fireplace.

SafeWork SA filed charges against Winona Way Pty Ltd, trading as The

Gully Public House and Garden, and its managing director, deemed an Officer for the purposes of the Work Health and Safety Act, in the South Australian Employment Tribunal earlier this month.

The charges relate to an incident which occurred at the venue, which is situated on North East Rd, Tea Tree Gully, on June 2, 2023.

It is alleged the worker was employed at The Gully Public House and Garden when

he was required to refuel a bioethanol-fuelled fireplace using a 25L plastic container.

The fuel or vapours allegedly ignited resulting in the worker suffering significant

burns.

SafeWork SA has alleged the defendants failed to ensure that the task was

undertaken in compliance with the manufacturer’s safety instructions and using the

manufacturer’s authorised accessories and equipment.

It is further alleged that they failed to ensure the worker was adequately trained and supervised when he undertook the task.

SafeWork SA has charged both defendants with a Category 2 offence under section

32 of the Work Health and Safety Act 2012.

It is alleged both defendants failed to comply with their health and safety duty and

exposed the worker to a risk of death or serious injury.

The maximum penalty for a Category 2 offence is $1.5 million for a body corporate

and $300,000 for an individual.

As the matter is before the courts, SafeWork SA is unable to provide any further

comment at this time.

Originally published as Gully Public House and Garden charged by Safework SA after worker allegedly engulfed in flames in June 2023