Machine faulty, says maimed worker

A worker who lost both legs and an arm in a tree shredder has claimed the industrial machine had been faulty for several months and management knew about the problem.

Chris Fromont, 48, became caught in the machine at the New Plymouth site of Manawatu Waste on Wednesday.

He has not explained how he became trapped, but told his brother Stephen that the machine was faulty and that staff and management were aware of the problem.

Stephen Fromont is demanding answers from management and expects the Department of Labour to fully investigate the claims.

"I've talked to [Chris] about some issues and I believe there were a lot of safety precautions ignored. I believe the staff know that and the management know that.

"That machine was faulty for several months before, for quite a few months and I'm angry about that and I want some answers."

Manawatu Waste Services general manager Ray Lambert said that he was unaware of any concerns about the machine's safety being raised by staff at the plant.

"There had been some discussion about the machine not producing good quality material on occasions, but this had not included operator safety concerns," he said in a statement.

Mr Lambert said the investigation would consider any records relating to the shredding machine.

He said senior management promoted regular safety meetings for all branches to get staff input on safety matters, and there was an incident reporting system in place.

Mr Fromont remains in a serious condition in Taranaki Base Hospital.

Stephen Fromont said he would be informing the Department of Labour of his brother's comments but his main focus was on his recovery.

Chris Fromont underwent further surgery yesterday and although he had been joking with family members he was struggling to come to terms with the loss of his limbs, said his brother. "He's a strong person ... a very strong man."