Qld urged to prioritise safety during National Safe Work Month

Queensland businesses and workers are encouraged to prioritise workplace safety as National Safe Work Month kicks off from 1 October to 31 October 2024.

The government said in a news release that the month-long initiative is a critical reminder for all industries to reinforce health and safety practices, with the aim of reducing workplace injuries and fatalities.

According to Workplace Health and Safety Queensland, maintaining safe workplaces is not only beneficial to businesses but also essential for workers and the broader community.

“Safety is everyone’s business and must be a priority in the workplace,” said WHSQ Deputy Director General Donna Heelan.

The latest national statistics highlight the need for increased vigilance. In 2023, Queensland recorded 51 workplace fatalities, 39 of which fell under work health and safety or electrical safety legislation.

“One workplace fatality is one too many,” Heelan stressed, as she underscored the impact of work-related deaths on families and communities.

Most of these fatalities involved vehicle-related incidents, with machinery operators and drivers making up the highest percentage of deaths.

Beyond fatalities, Queensland experienced 33,832 serious workers’ compensation claims in the 2022/2023 financial year.

These included injuries and diseases, with a significant proportion occurring in the 35–54-year age group.

“We all have a right to come home safe and healthy at the end of every working day,” Heelan said, highlighting the urgency for businesses to adopt best practices for rehabilitation and return-to-work schemes.

National Safe Work Month aims to drive conversations around workplace safety, with WHSQ providing a range of resources, guides, and tools to assist businesses in maintaining a harm-free environment.

“This Safe Work Month, take the time to talk about workplace health and safety with your team, your family, and your colleagues,” Heelan advises, urging all workers to engage in safety discussions.

A series of events, including the Work Well Conference and Work Well Speaker Series, will offer insights on various safety topics such as the role of artificial intelligence in workplace safety, fatigue management, and leadership in health and safety.

“We need to work together to reduce incidents in the workplace and consequently make all our lives better,” Heelan added.