Qld workplace death and injury figures deliver wake-up call

Shocking new data has revealed more than 50 Queenslanders died in a workplace accident last year. These are the most at-risk jobs.

Fifty-one workplace deaths were recorded in 2023. (File picture)

Shocking new data has revealed more than 50 Queenslanders died in a workplace accident last year, with machinery operators and drivers the most common job for fatalities.

The new data provided by Workplace Health and Safety Queensland shows 51 workplace deaths were recorded in 2023, including 39 which were covered under workplace or electrical safety legislation.

Of those, 35 workplace deaths involved a vehicle, and most fatalities involved workers aged 35 to 54 years old.

It comes at the beginning of National Safe Work Month where WHSQ deputy director general Donna Heelan has called on employers and staff to put their safety first.

“Work-related fatalities, injuries and illnesses have a big impact on individuals, their families, and the broader community. One workplace fatality is one too many,” Ms Heelan said.

“We all have a right to come home safe and healthy at the end of every working day.”

Safe Work Australia data showed 33,832 serious workers’ compensation claims were made in the 2022-23 financial year.

Of these, 26,526 claims were for injuries and 7,306 claims were for diseases and conditions. Most of the serious claims – defined as compensated for five days or more, occurred in the 35 to 54-year age group.

Ms Heelan said safety was everyone’s business.

“We know that if you take action to talk about safety and to raise the importance of safety in the workplace, workers are more likely to be proactive and follow safety procedures and manage the risks.

“Individuals and organisations can work together to protect workers’ mental and physical health by eliminating and managing risks at work, and ensuring all workers are supported in a safe and healthy workplace.”