SafeWork SA campaigns to reduce musculoskeletal disorders

SafeWork SA is undertaking a compliance and safety awareness campaign, focusing on reducing musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) and related traumatic joint, muscle and tendon injuries in the manufacturing sector. Musculoskeletal disorders occur when the body’s musculoskeletal system is injured, either suddenly or over time. This can include back injuries; strained or sprained muscles, ligaments or tendons; the degeneration of a joint or bone; and nerve damage such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Safe Work Australia revealed that workplace injury and musculoskeletal disorders led to 55% of serious claims in 2015–2016, with 43% of the claims relating to traumatic joint/ligament and muscle/tendon injuries.

“We will be conducting compliance audits in manufacturing businesses to ensure improved safety in South Australian workplaces. During our visits, we work with the business to identify the challenges and hazards unique to their workplace and discuss the best safety solution for the situation. Where we find a safety issue that breaches WHS requirements, our inspectors will issue a compliance notice,” said Martyn Campbell, SafeWork SA Executive Director.

The Work Health and Safety Act 2012 (SA) states that business owners are responsible for providing adequate training and supervision for all workers, ensuring equipment is in safe working order and managing all risks to prevent injuries.

“As the state’s regulator, SafeWork SA wants every worker goes home safe each day. I strongly encourage all businesses to be proactive about safety,” Campbell said.

Businesses must identify all hazards specific to their workplace, and install appropriate control measures to prevent or reduce the risk of harm to workers and the public. A successful safety plan identifies all hazards and ensures that appropriate control measures are in place. Safety plans must also ensure that workers receive adequate training and supervision, and that the safety control measures are reviewed regularly.

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