Program aims to improve safety in the construction industry

WorkSafe Victoria is encouraging small to medium-sized businesses to sign up to the Occupational Health and Safety Essentials Program. According to WorkSafe figures, construction is one of the most dangerous industries in Victoria, accounting for about 14 percent of all accepted injury claims in 2021. The leading causes of injury were body stressing, slips trips and falls and being hit by a moving object.  The figures show 12 construction workers died on the job in 2021.

WorkSafe Victoria says the OHS Essentials Program is available to help make construction workplaces safer. It is a great way to receive free, independent and personalised advice to keep your workers safe.

OHS Consultant Gloria Morosinotto said the program offered personalised advice to deal with the unique challenges facing the construction industry.

"The OHS Essentials Program is really about helping them to not only manage health and safety risk but helping them to provide a great working environment for everyone. We're not inspectors, we're all independent consultants that provide this service," Ms Morosinotto said.

For more information about the OHS Essentials Program, go to the WorkSafe Victoria website.