SAFETY Institute of Australia (SIA) NSW Division president Barry Silburn said regulatory changes are encouraging many small-to-medium enterprises to pursue safety more aggressively.
“Apart from not wanting to see their people hurt, employers are discovering workplace safety can reap substantial savings,” he said.
“Injuries are costly – it’s widely accepted that 90% of costs associated with an injury are not recoverable from insurance. Lost production, increased overtime, damage to morale and dealings with lawyers and inspectorates can all have a direct impact on the bottom line when someone is hurt at work.
“There’s also another new and very positive financial incentive to make workplaces safe. It’s about a year since the workers compensation premium discount scheme was launched in New South Wales and employers are finding that the target 15% discounts really are achievable with the right safety systems.”
Silburn’s comments lead up to The Safety Show and Conference from 13 to 15 October at The Dome, Hall 2 and Southee Complex at the Sydney Showgrounds, Sydney Olympic Park.
Australian Exhibitions & Conferences (03) 9654 7773
safety@aec.net.au
www.thesafetyshow.com