PCYC Queensland advises of full co-operation with investigation into teenager's gym death

The Police-Citizens Youth Welfare Association (PCYC Queensland) has advised that it is fully co-operating with authorities in the prosecution relating to the death of teenager Ben Shaw following injuries sustained in the gym at the Pine Rivers PCYC in September 2017.

Following charges being laid last week by Queensland's Office of the Work Health and Safety Prosecutor, the charity has released a statement in response to its prosecution.

PCYC Queensland Chief Executive, Phil Schultz advised “we remain deeply saddened by the passing of Ben Shaw and our thoughts are with his family, friends and our community,”.

“We have co-operated fully with Worksafe Queensland during its investigation and will continue to work with authorities to enable the process to take its full course.

“We recognise this may be a difficult time and remain focused on providing the support that is needed to help our community to move forward and heal.

“As this is a legal matter, we must continue to respect this process and it would be inappropriate for us to comment further at this time.”

15-year-old Ben Shaw sustained neck injuries when a weight bar came down onto his throat while working out alone at the Pine Rivers PCYC on 26th September 2017.

Trapped by the bar he was found by staff approximately 20 minutes later.

While staff administered first aid before he was transported to hospital he died four days later.

According to PCYC Queensland's gym and fitness centre policy and procedures, children under the age of 16 must complete an induction with a parent or guardian and must be supervised while at the gym.

Last week a Queensland Office of Industrial Relations spokesman advised of the prosecution, stating “following a comprehensive investigation by Workplace Health and Safety Queensland, a brief of evidence was referred to the Office of the Work Health and Safety Prosecutor.

“After careful consideration, the Work Health and Safety Prosecutor has commenced a prosecution against the Police-Citizens Youth Welfare Association for a Category 2 offence under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 for failing to comply with a health and safety duty and exposing individuals to a risk of death or serious injury.”

This death and that of a man who had been working out by himself in a gym in Gladstone last year is being followed closely by fitness industry stakeholders.

Images: The gym at the Pine Rivers PCYC (top) and Ben Shaw (below, courtesy of Facebook).