The NSW Government recently launched a strategy that outlines how SafeWork will support employers to manage risks and comply with their duty to prevent psychological harm in NSW workplaces. The SafeWork NSW Psychological Health and Safety Strategy 2024-2026 will be supported by $5.6 million in government funding over the next two years to deliver workplace mental health programs through the Black Dog Institute and Transitioning Well.
WorkSafe Victoria recently released new guidance to improve forklift safety and launched a state-wide inspection program to help drive down the toll of forklift-related deaths and injuries. The newly-published guidance provides advice to employers on the safe use and maintenance of forklifts and highlights the need to separate forklifts from people on the ground.
A recent WorkSafe WA report has found that the top 20 workplace hazards have led to 25,000 years of lost time over the period of a decade. Manual handling was the worst hazard group by total time lost from work, accounting for 40 per cent of all lost time, while “trips on clear ground” was the worst hazard, with 4300 years lost and 17,800 claims at a cost of $700 million.
Workers undertaking repetitive movements and standing for prolonged periods of time experience the highest incidences of back pain, according to a recent survey. It found that those most at risk of musculoskeletal disorders and low back pain include those who do strenuous physical work including lifting and repetitive actions such as bending, squatting or standing for extended periods.
It is important not to pretend that there is zero risk of an adverse outcome when it comes to managing and minimising risk, unless there is actually no exposure to the hazard that creates a risk, according to an academic expert in OHS risk management.
