New safety figures by the Victorian WorkCover Authority (VWA) show workplace injuries in the Southern Grampians and Glenelg shires fell by 18 per cent in the last 12 months.
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The figures were released ahead of visits by VWA inspectors to 200 workplaces across the Hamilton region this week as part of an on-going Safe Towns campaign.
“In 2013 there were 189 injury claims in the region, 40 less than in 2012. That’s a fall of 18 percent, which is a wonderful achievement,” said VWA chief executive Denise Cosgrove.
But Ms Cosgrove said there was no place for complacency and the Hamilton workplace visits would ensure safety remained a top priority.
“Our visit is part of our statewide strategy to work with regional businesses and increase their awareness around how to identify and fix common workplace hazards,” she said.
The visits will provide an opportunity for inspectors to help Hamilton businesses with their health and safety obligations and to answer any questions they might have.
Inspectors will provide advice on a range of workplace safety issues, including how to control manual handling risks; dealing with falls; working at heights; proper guarding of machines and equipment; chemical handling and noise control. Return-to-work inspectors will also be on hand.
Noel Jennings, OHS officer at Hamilton business Windmill Ag, said the visits from VWA should be welcomed by local businesses.
“We’ve worked with the VWA before and it’s given us the opportunity to review safety in the business and make sure the necessary measures are in place to prevent injuries,” he said.