Approximately 1 work-related fatality occurs in Western Australia, every 3-weeks according to recently released government figures.
WorkSafe WA conducted research for the 2011-2012 period and the results showed that 5,350 working people suffered serious very serious injuries from 2008-2013.
UnionsWA said the amount and frequency of very serious work injuries ( resulting in 60 working days lost) – was higher at any time in the last half-decade.
“This is a cost to industry through workers’ compensation, but more importantly people are often left with life-long disability and a loss of livelihood,” said Meredith Hammat, Secretary of UnionsWA.
The report summary revealed that there were 18,562 lost time injuries and diseases of one or more days in WA in 2011-12, and an average, 4018 workers were being hurt in manner which requires 60 or more days off work.
Unions WA said the figures showed that stronger efforts need to be made both by the government and the employers
“Clearly more needs to be done, by governments, employers and everyone in WA workplaces,” Ms Hammat said.
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Source: http://www.perthnow.com.au/news/western-australia/one-wa-workers-dies-every-21-days-safety-report/story-fnhocxo3-1226687313605#sthash.IcrlNVGo.dpuf