According to the latest statistics from WorkSafe, more than seven young workers aged between 15 and 24 are seriously injured every day in Victoria.
Half of these injuries take place in the construction, retail and manufacturing sectors.
The death of a 19-year-old construction worker at Cranbourne East last week is a tragic reminder that workplace safety is a priority and must be everyone’s responsibility.
Over the past five years, more than 14,200 injury claims involving young workers have been reported.
Poor manual handling techniques and slips, trips and falls accounted for more than half of all injuries to young workers in 2013-14.
Starting a new job is a very exciting time for a young person. It also presents a number of health and safety challenges for employers as young workers learn the ropes.
Young workers are keen and enthusiastic, but their inexperience can make them vulnerable to being harmed in the workplace.
For more information about how to manage health and safety risks for young workers, go to worksafe.vic.gov.au.
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Finance, Robin Scott
“Every Victorian employee has a right to feel safe in the workplace.”
“Employers need to make sure their workplaces are safe and give young workers the appropriate training and guidance to their jobs safely.”
“The death of a young construction worker last week is a terrible reminder.”
Quotes attributable to WorkSafe Victoria’s Executive Director of Health and Safety, Len Neist
“Employers can reduce the risk of injury to young workers by making sure new staff are trained and supervised and that they have the right equipment to carry out their work.”
“It’s also important young workers are encouraged to speak up, not only when they are unsure of how to safely complete a task but also when they identify potential hazards. Young workers should know who they can talk to and where to seek assistance.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020