By TCCI Workplace Health & Safety Specialist Craig Hortle

Safe Work Australia recently released its reports for the 2016-2017 year.

Some of the information is interesting and supports the active participation in a system that supports working safely at work.

Just over nine people out of every 1000 workers sustains a serious injury in workplaces in Australia.

The average claim per serious injury is $11,500.

In Tasmania the incident rate of serious claims and disease for the 2016-2017 was 12.1 per 1000 employees.

The value of implementing a safe system of work in the workplace cannot be undervalued for the following reasons:

• Compliance to WHS legislation;
• Safety of workforce;
• Ability to negotiate with workers compensation insurer on premium;
• Less time off due to workplace injuries;
• Reduced costs for replacement workers for those that suffer injuries at work;
• A more engaged workforce because of structured system of work;
• Better productivity due to retained workforce.

The development of a safe system of work can be simple and inexpensive as the majority of workplaces do not require the assistance of a WHS consultant.

Free information services on WHS requirements are available from the Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce WHS specialists. This is open to both members and non-members of the chamber.

For more information please contact Craig Hortle or Janelle Whitehouse at the TCCI on 1300 559 122 or safety@TCCI.com.au.