Statistics show that $736 MILLION of workers’ compensation paid was related to mental health conditions in 2018-19, 120,355 serious workers’ compensation claims were made in 2019-2022, and as of last month, 115 Australian deaths were work-related deaths this year alone. October is National Safe Work Month – a time to commit to building a safe and healthy workplace.
If these statistics interest you, read more here.
As stated on the safeworkaustralia website, ‘Being healthy and safe means being free from physical and psychological harm. A safe and healthy workplace benefits everyone. This is why, during October each year, Safe Work Australia asks businesses, employers, and workers across Australia to join National Safe Work Month and commit to building safe and healthy workplaces for all Australians.’
Hazards in the workplace can range anywhere from chemicals, scaffolding, slips, trips, and falls, to fatigue, bullying, sexual harassment, violence, and aggression. Each type of hazard has ways to maintain health and safety regarding the specific hazard. Some include emergency plans and procedures, first aid, leadership, mental health, and PPE.
Easy workplace safety tips include:
- Undergoing necessary training
- Using signs and labels where needed
- Keeping resources and utilities clean and free of mess
- Identify, assess, control, and review hazards
- Record and report safety issues
- Introduce mental health initiatives
- Encourage stretch and brain breaks
- Have regular meetings regarding workplace safety
Although October specifically highlights and encourages workplace safety, it is important to be aware of it all year round, as we all share the benefits of a healthy and safe workplace.
