SafeWork NSW has launched a new TradieSafe project in an effort to reduce injuries in the Hunter region’s residential construction industry.
Over the next 12 months, SafeWork NSW inspectors will visit construction sites across the region to help tradespersons improve work health and safety in their businesses.
The program follows a recent survey of 167 Hunter construction workers, which found the top three safety risks most likely to cause work-related injuries were falls from heights from ladders and roofs; slips, trips and falls due to poor housekeeping; and cuts from sharp objects. Construction workers also identified inadequate use of personal protective equipment as an issue.
SafeWork NSW Executive Director, Peter Dunphy, said the Hunter residential construction industry was not only one of the region’s largest industries, but also one of the highest risk.
“Each year an average of 730 construction workers are injured in the Hunter region, costing $7.5 million in workers’ compensation claims,” Mr Dunphy said.
“Half of all claims are for soft tissue injuries, and lacerations and contusions to hands, eyes, ears, ankles and knees; injuries that can be avoided if effective safety procedures are in place”, Mr Dunphy said.
“The TradieSafe project will focus on the three risks identified in the survey, as well as site security.
Mr Dunphy reminded employers it was their responsibility to ensure the safety of their workforce.
“Providing a safe workplace is not just good for workers - it reduces a construction firm’s liabilities and costs, and improves worker productivity,” he said.
For further information on TradieSafe, contact SafeWork NSW Hunter on 02 4921 2900 or email tradiesafe@safework.nsw.gov.au
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