Workplace injuries can happen in any industry, and unfortunately, Australia is no exception. According to Safe Work Australia, there were 114,815 serious workers’ compensation claims made in Australia in 2018-19, and 183 workers died due to work-related injuries.
These statistics highlight the importance of identifying the most common workplace injuries in Australia to prevent them from happening in the first place.
Common Workplace Injuries Adelaide.
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Manual handling injuries:
Manual handling injuries are by far the most common workplace injury in Australia, accounting for 37% of all serious workers’ compensation claims. These types of injuries can occur in any industry and are caused by the improper handling of heavy or awkward loads, repetitive tasks, or incorrect lifting techniques. Common injuries include strains, sprains, and muscle tears.
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Slips, trips, and falls:
Slips, trips, and falls are the second most common workplace injury in Australia, accounting for 21% of all serious workers’ compensation claims. These types of injuries are prevalent in industries such as construction, hospitality, and healthcare. Slips and trips can be caused by wet or slippery floors, uneven surfaces, or cluttered workspaces, while falls can occur from heights, such as ladders or scaffolding. Common injuries include fractures, head injuries, and sprains.
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Vehicle-related accidents:
Vehicle-related accidents are the third most common workplace injury in Australia, accounting for 14% of all serious workers’ compensation claims. These types of injuries occur in industries that rely heavily on vehicles, such as transportation and construction. Accidents can be caused by driver error, inadequate training, or faulty equipment. Common injuries include whiplash, broken bones, and head injuries.
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Exposure to hazardous substances:
Exposure to hazardous substances is the fourth most common workplace injury in Australia, accounting for 5% of all serious workers’ compensation claims. These types of injuries occur in industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and construction. Exposure can occur through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact with hazardous chemicals or materials. Common injuries include respiratory problems, skin irritations, and poisoning.
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Mental health injuries:
Mental health injuries are becoming increasingly prevalent in the workplace, accounting for 8% of all serious workers’ compensation claims in Australia. These types of injuries can occur in any industry and are caused by workplace stress, bullying, and harassment. Common injuries include anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Preventing workplace injuries Adelaide.
Preventing workplace injuries should be a top priority for all employers. To reduce the risk of injury in the workplace, employers should implement the following measures:
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Provide adequate training:
Employees should receive adequate training on how to handle heavy loads, operate machinery, and use equipment safely.
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Maintain a clean and tidy workplace:
Employers should ensure that the workplace is kept clean and tidy to prevent slips, trips, and falls.
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Regularly inspect vehicles and equipment:
Vehicles and equipment should be regularly inspected to ensure they are in good working order and safe to use.
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Provide protective equipment:
Employees should be provided with protective equipment, such as gloves, safety glasses, and hard hats, to reduce the risk of injury.
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Address mental health concerns:
Employers should promote a positive work culture and provide support for employees who may be experiencing workplace stress or mental health concerns.
If you are an employee and have encountered a workplace injury in Adelaide, the team at Mahony’s Lawyers can help
