Website highlights injury hotspots

WorkSafe has developed a new website that helps businesses identify workplace safety risks.

The ‘Injury Hotspots’ website uses five years of workplace injury insurance claims to provide a snapshot of how people get hurt most often. Businesses can use the information to determine the real safety risks in their area and ensure the proper precautions are in place.

“It’s about reminding Victorians that there are real safety risks in all workplaces and proven ways to control them,” WorkSafe’s executive director, John Merritt said.

“Knowing the hazards in your industry and workplace is the first step towards preventing injuries and saving lives.

“The Injury Hotspots confirm that most workplace injuries are caused by well-known hazards. Accompanying safety solutions represent the typical expectations of WorkSafe inspectors and provide clear easy-to-follow ways to achieve safety,” he said.

The first Injury hotspots cover Victoria’s high-risk industries including agriculture, meat, road freight, manufacturing, storage, community services, education, health and construction trades.

The most common injuries include: back and shoulder injuries from bending, lifting and repetitive movements; arm, hand and finger injuries from working with machinery or tools; and leg injuries from slips, trips or falls.

The interactive website can be accessed at www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/hotspots. Users can click on individual hotspots to find solutions and detailed advice, or download hotspot fact sheets for their industry.

WorkSafe will release Injury Hotspots for up to a dozen more industries over coming months.