Note: The Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety's investigation is ongoing. Information contained in the safety alert is based on findings at the time of writing.
On 29 October 2020, a contractor service mechanic serviced a generator that provided power to a mine village. The generator was on a hire agreement with a third party supply company, which is a common arrangement for mines in Western Australia.
The service mechanic completed a general service of the 300 kVA generator, de-isolated it and brought it back on-line. He then conducted post service inspections and clean-up, including wiping up oil and grease marks with a rag.
When the service mechanic leaned into the generator enclosure with a rag in his hand, it appears the rag and his hand were drawn into the rotating radiator fan blades causing serious injuries to his thumb, index and middle fingers.