Workplace safety memorial opened in Tasmania

Speaking at the opening of the Tasmanian Workers Commemorative Park in Launceston recently, Tasmania’s Workplace Relations Minister Lisa Singh said there is no greater issue for employees and employers than workplace safety.

“One death in the workplace is one death too many,” Singh said. “Every employee has the right to be able to go to work knowing that they have a safe workplace and a safe working environment. Every employer has a responsibility to provide a safe working environment for all staff members.

“On average, each year, nine people in Tasmania die as a result of a workplace accident and that is a statistic that we must bring down.”

The park was created to honour those who have died in the workplace, with the state government contributing $5000 towards its cost. It will act as a constant reminder to the state of the terrible losses and accidents that can be prevented through consistent workplace safety.

“A memorial dedicated to those who lost their lives at work is an important way of reminding the community that workplaces can be dangerous places,” continued Singh. “The cost to the community can be calculated in dollar terms, but it is the social cost that is incalculable. How can anyone even imagine the grief felt by family and friends when a loved one is killed at work?

“Workplace health and safety is too often left to somebody else. The truth is that everybody has a role to play. No business deliberately exposes its workers to danger, but neglecting occupational health and safety can do precisely that.

“The Tasmanian Workers Commemorative Park will stand as a reminder to both employers and employees of the importance of safety as a prevention of future deaths in the workplace.”