A workplace incident occurred at the Lautoka mill yesterday evening, resulting in a temporary shutdown of operations. An employee became trapped in a conveyor belt, necessitating immediate action to extricate him. The belt had to be cut to free the worker, who was subsequently transported to the hospital for treatment.
In light of the accident, the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) has communicated to growers that the mill will remain closed for 36 hours. A message sent through a messaging portal advised, “Rarawai grower- Lautoka mill is down for the next 36 hours. Please hold all lorries in the sector, and stop harvesting until further advice from the sector office.”
An investigation is set to start today, with participation from the Occupational Health and Safety department of the Ministry of Labour. This incident occurs amid ongoing concerns regarding operational challenges at the Lautoka mill, which have previously prompted scrutiny among stakeholders regarding safety and efficiency.
Reflecting on previous instances of mechanical failures at the mill, such as the recent boiler tube leak that led to earlier shutdowns, this accident highlights the importance of safety protocols and timely communication within the FSC. The company has been making significant investments to improve machinery and operational practices aimed at enhancing performance and minimizing disruptions, which is promising for the future stability of the sugar industry in Fiji.
Overall, while the incident represents a challenge for the Lautoka mill, the hope is that these setbacks prompt improvements in safety and operational efficiency, ultimately benefiting the workers and the wider community involved in the sugar production sector.
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