Food poisoning at work – is it the business’ fault?

The Judge awarded her $65,573 after she claimed that the salmonella poisioning left her with significant long-term physical and psychological symptoms.

The café was shut down for several weeks after the workplace incident, which coincidently also affected five patrons. The café was inspected, and it was found there was no soap, hand sanitiser or paper towels at the premises, and no chemicals for sanitising large equipment or work surfaces. A further hazard was identified, being that the temperature in the café’s cool room and fridges was not controlled due to an ineffective thermometer, where items like raw meat were stored.

It was determined that the employer failed their duty to take reasonable care to avoid exposing the worker to the risk of contracting salmonella, noting that salmonella poisoning can have serious health effects and, in some situations, may be fatal.