ABS reports work-related injury or illness down and men still at most risk

The number of people experiencing a work-related injury or illness has declined, according to the latest figures released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).

In 2009-10, about 640,700 people (5.3% of the 12 million people employed at some time in the last 12 months) experienced a work-related injury or illness, compared with 690,000 (6.4%) in 2005-06.

Overall, of the people who worked at some time in the last 12 months, men were still more likely to experience a work-related injury or illness at 55 per 1000 men (down from 74 per 1000 in 2005-06) than women at 51 per 1000 women (same rate as in 2005-06). More than half of people who experienced a work-related injury or illness were men (56%).

The highest rates of work-related injury or illness were experienced in the 45- to 49-year age group (74 per 1000 men and 70 per 1000 women). However, the decrease in the rates of incidence of work-related injuries were highest for young men.

The most commonly reported injuries or illnesses were sprains and strains (30%), followed by chronic joint or muscle conditions (18%), and cuts or open wounds (16%).

Around half of the most recent work-related injuries or illnesses were sustained mostly by lifting, pushing or pulling objects (27%) or by hitting or being hit or cut by an object (25%).

More than 60% of those who experienced a work-related injury received some sort of financial assistance, and of those who received financial assistance more than half (59%) received workers compensation. More than 55% of those who experienced a work-related injury had some time off.

Around 30% of persons who worked at some time in the last 12 months had not received formal training in occupational health and safety risks in the workplace.