Worker struck by poly pipe after release of stored energy | Resources Safety & Health Queensland
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Mineral Mines & Quarries Inspectorate | Alert | No.471 V 1 | 13 February 2026

Worker struck by poly pipe after release of stored energy

Summary

  • A worker at an underground mine was injured when they were struck by a poly pipe.
  • Initial information suggests the cause was a sudden movement of the poly while it was being installed.
  • Investigation into the incident is ongoing, and preliminary learnings are outlined below.

Issue Explained

  • A service crew was installing a new four-inch-diameter poly pipe in an underground drive at a mine.
  • The first 50 meters of poly pipe had been installed, and a second 50-meter length of poly pipe was connected with a joiner.
  • The joined section of pipe was being lifted using a U-shaped ‘bull-horn’ attachment on the basket of an integrated tool-carrier (IT) so it could be hung from the backs.
  • The worker was in the basket next to the pipe to facilitate the installation when the pipe moved unexpectedly as the basket was lowered to allow the joiner to pass through the bull horn.
  • The ‘U’ shaped bull-horn attachment was open at the top which allowed the pipe to come free and contact the worker’s head.

Figure 1 - The ICT basket with the U-shaped bull-horn attachment which was used to lift the poly pipe.

Figure 1: The IT basket with the U-shaped bull-horn attachment which was used to lift the poly pipe.

Learnings

  • The uncontrolled release of energy can cause pipes, lines or hoses to suddenly spring back or move, leading to serious or fatal injuries.
  • Site Senior Executives (SSEs) and any personnel taking part in this kind of work should be aware that stored energy release, such as unexpected movement, ‘whipping’ or ‘spring-back’ of pipes, lines and hoses, may be a hazard present during installation, and take action to appropriately mitigate risk to workers.
  • Risk assessments, procedures and Safe Work Instructions (SWIs) must consider the potential for stored energy release during the installation or maintenance of services.
  • Plant and equipment used for installation of services should also incorporate features to assist in the control of stored energy hazards.

Figure 2 - The U-shaped bull-horn attachment which was used to lift the poly pipe. An interim control suggested by the site was attaching a chain across the top of the attachment.Figure 2: The U-shaped bull-horn attachment which was used to lift the poly pipe. An interim control suggested by the site was attaching a chain across the top of the attachment.

Investigations are ongoing and further information may be published as it becomes available. The information in this publication is what is known at the time of writing.

We issue Safety Notices to draw attention to the occurrence of a serious incident, raise awareness of risks, and prompt assessment of your existing controls.

References and further information

Authorised by Hermann Fasching - Chief Inspector – Mineral Mines & Quarries

Contact:

Issued by Resources Safety & Health Queensland

Safety: This information is a guide only and is issued to promote safety through experience. It is not to be taken as a statement of law and must not be construed to waive or modify any legal obligation.
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Acknowledgement of Country

RSHQ respectfully acknowledges all Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the country on which we live and work. We acknowledge their continuing connection to land, waters and culture and commit to ongoing reconciliation. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present.