Work safe this summer

Wednesday 20 December 2000

With 15 people having been killed at work so far this financial year, the Occupational Safety and Health Service (OSH) is warning people to be vigilant in the workplace during summer.

"At a time of relaxation and enjoyment it is tragically ironic that history shows there will be a significant increase in people being killed or injured at work in the coming months," the General Manager of OSH, Bob Hill, said.

"The 15 deaths so far this year are a sad reminder of the need for employers and employees to be mindful, especially at this time of the year.

Last year OSH investigated 13 workplace deaths in the three months of January to March.

Factors that contribute to the higher rate of fatal accidents during summer include increased numbers in the casual workforce and increased activity in high-risk sectors.

Construction, forestry and agriculture are traditionally dangerous areas and improved weather means that during summer they tend to require more labour.

"We know we are entering a time of high-risk and we know the reasons why. I urge everyone in the workplace to take responsibility to ensure that the time for celebration does not end in commiseration," Mr Hill said.

Mr Hill also warned parents to be vigilant during the school holiday period and be aware that accidents have occurred during holidays with unsupervised children wandering onto construction sites.

"Similarly, farms are dangerous places for children, with accidents often resulting from the dangerous use of vehicles such as tractors and ATVs.

"Parents are also advised not to take children to work with them during the school holidays. Workplaces are not suitable places for children to be looked after during the school holidays. In fact, it is illegal for them to be in many workplaces unless they are directly supervised."