Two young workers have died and a third has been seriously injured in three separate incidents in Victorian workplaces in recent days.
WorkSafe is investigating after a man in his early twenties was seriously injured when he fell at an apartment construction site. It is believed the man fell about six metres.
Earlier, a 29-year-old was electrocuted while working near a live switchboard at a factory and, the day before that incident, a 17-year-old girl working as a stable-hand died after falling from a horse while working at a rural property.
These tragic two days have prompted warnings for employers of the need to make sure employees returning from holidays or starting work for the first time fully understand the risks involved.
Studies have shown that, in some industries, new or younger employees are up to 48% more likely to be injured in their first month at work. It’s important that employees starting at new worksites are properly inducted & briefed on how to perform tasks safely and those returning to work are reminded of the risks in the workplace.
Young workers were particularly vulnerable and needed extra care and attention from their supervisors. Young workers often lack experience and can be reluctant to ask questions. They need to be educated about the risks involved in their jobs and the safeguards in place. Employers need to ensure that their staff receive the correct training and supervision and feel comfortable about speaking up if they are uncertain about any task they are given.
We can help new employees remain safe working in our workplaces!
a) Supervise them at all times.
b) Complete an induction and go through your JSA’s, SMS’s etc.
c) Show them the correct way to perform tasks.
d) Take the time to explain the task to them.
e) Point out the hazards of the task.
f) Ask them questions & Get them to ask questions.
g) Have them repeat the task you have shown them.
h) Complete a STOP – what they are doing, THINK - about the hazards & ASK – if not sure!
i) Repeat! - Supervise them at all times.