Child's Hands Allegedly Catch Fire at Questacon: Department Faces $1.5 Million Fine

The Department of Industry, Science and Resources, which oversees Questacon, the National Science and Technology Centre in Canberra, faces a hefty $1.5 million fine after a child's hands were allegedly set ablaze during a visit to the museum.

The incident, which occurred in July 2022, involved a nine-year-old child who was interacting with a hands-on plasma globe exhibit. The child, after using alcohol-based hand sanitiser provided by Questacon, allegedly touched the globe, resulting in a spark that ignited the sanitiser and caused burns to their hands and wrists.

The Investigation and Charges

A thorough investigation conducted by Comcare, the national workplace safety authority, uncovered the details of the incident. The investigation revealed that the Department of Industry, Science and Resources failed to fulfill its primary duty of ensuring workplace health and safety under the Work Health and Safety Act.

Comcare's findings pointed to several potential measures the department could have taken to mitigate the risks associated with the plasma globe exhibit. These included:

• Removing the plasma globes from the exhibit after discovering the potential fire hazard posed by alcohol-based hand sanitiser.
• Limiting the operation of the globes to trained staff, ensuring that only individuals with proper training and knowledge of the risks were responsible for handling the exhibits.
• Providing non-alcohol-based sanitiser, or implementing portable handwashing stations equipped with soap and water, thereby eliminating the potential ignition source.
• Providing clear and conspicuous warnings to visitors about the possibility of spark ignition and the risk of fire associated with the plasma globes.

The Department's Response and Next Steps

The Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions (CDPP) has filed a single charge against the Department of Industry, Science and Resources, alleging the department's negligence in fulfilling its health and safety duties. This category 2 criminal offense carries a maximum penalty of $1.5 million.

In response, the Department of Industry, Science and Resources has stated that it cannot comment on the case due to its pending legal proceedings. However, the department confirmed that the CDPP has initiated legal action against them. Questacon, in a separate statement, said they have removed the plasma ball exhibit and implemented various safety measures in response to the incident.

Questacon's Safety Measures and Public Statement

“The safety of both visitors and staff at the Centre is of paramount importance to Questacon and we are committed to maintaining Questacon as a safe place for Australians to visit,” Questacon stated.

The case is set for a mention at the ACT Magistrates Court on September 12, 2024, where the department will have the opportunity to present its response to the charges and address the allegations of negligence.

A Blow to Questacon's Reputation and Public Trust

This incident has undoubtedly tarnished the reputation of Questacon, a popular science museum that draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. The incident also raises concerns about the safety practices of the museum and the Department of Industry, Science and Resources, which oversees it. The hefty fine imposed on the department serves as a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing workplace safety and adhering to stringent health and safety regulations. This incident should serve as a wake-up call to institutions and organizations nationwide, urging them to review their safety protocols and ensure that they are implementing all necessary measures to safeguard the well-being of their visitors and staff.

This incident underscores the importance of careful consideration of potential risks associated with exhibits and activities, particularly those involving interactive elements and flammable materials. The incident also highlights the critical role of clear and comprehensive safety protocols and the need for proactive measures to minimize risks and ensure a safe environment for everyone.