Mental Illness – Fastest Growing Workplace Injury
Independent research shows Mental Illness is the fastest growing workplace injury and is costing hundreds of billions per year.
The Australian Council of Trade Unions has welcomed some recommendations from the Productivity Commission, including no-liability treatment for mental health injuries and claims.
Psychological health and safety should be treated with the same importance as physical health and safety and WHS in the workplace.
ACTU conducted a survey this year and I was found that over 60% of respondents had experienced mental illness due to their employer failing to manage psycho-social hazards in the workplace. It was also found in this survey that nearly half of participants felt their employers were not prepared to support workers experiencing mental illness in the workplace.
Employees who operate machinery & equipment as part of their job are at risk of major injury if the correct safety precautions are not taken. There are specific laws for working with machinery & equipment. Recent data from SafeWork NSW highlight risks.
icare recently announced the launch a pilot program trialling the use of an independent panel of medical providers. This initiative is hoped to provide various benefits including decreasing time currently taken to approve injured worker treatments.
Michael joins our team with extensive injury & claims management, Work Health & Safety (WHS) as well as workplace safety compliance experience. In completing his Bachelor of Commerce, Michael’s understanding of business complements his desire to help people & prevent risks.
Recently we have been involved with an increased number of fall related incidents. The injuries sustained, & the resulting workers compensation claims, can often be complex & costly. In addition to claim related costs, employers also face material fines for unsafe work sites.