WorkSafe Blitz On Manual Handling Hazards

WorkSafe have announced that from 1 November 2008 they will be conducting a state-wide inspection campaign targeting musculoskeletal disorder injuries, more commonly known as manual handling sprains and strains.

WorkSafe's Executive Director, Mr John Merritt is quoted as saying: "Preventing injuries from manual lifting and slips, trips and falls of less than two meters are the focus of this campaign. These injuries accounted for more than 60% of all workplace injury insurance claims in 2007-2008."

Mr Merritt also indicated that in many cases there were simple mechanical solutions that could eliminate or control the risks of musculoskeletal injuries and that unfortunately businesses were ignorant of or reluctant to implement such measures.