Workplace injury targets fall short

A reduction in workplace fatalities has placed Australian workplaces ahead of the target set in the National OHS Strategy, but progress in workplace injury still falls short of the targeted 40% improvement by 2012.

The data was discussed at last week's meeting of the Australian Safety and Compensation Council (ASCC), which included members from all states and territories, the Commonwealth, the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Australian Council of Trade Unions.

"Preliminary data indicates there has been a 10% reduction in the incidence for work-related fatalities and that, while Australia remains at seventh place internationally, the gap is reducing," ASCC chairman, Bill Scales said.

"The data highlighted, however, that despite a 5% improvement against the target for workplace injury, progress is still well below the rate needed to achieve Australia's injury and musculoskeletal target of at least a 40% improvement by 2012."

The data is based on the Notified Fatalities Report 2004-05, which is to be published on the ASCC website. It provides details and analysis of the 139 fatalities notified to state and territory OHS authorities during the 2004-05 financial year.