Building a Culture of Workplace Safety
Workplace safety is more than a legal obligation—it’s a commitment to protecting the health and wellbeing of every employee. Recent statistics from WorkSafe Victoria highlight just how crucial it is for businesses to prioritise occupational health and safety (OHS) to prevent incidents and ensure compliance.
In 2024, WorkSafe Victoria reported nearly 120 prosecutions resulting in over $13 million in fines, costs, and enforceable undertakings due to breaches of the Occupational Health and Safety Act and the Dangerous Goods Act. These figures serve as a stark reminder that safety should never be an afterthought.
One of the most significant cases included Victoria’s first industrial manslaughter conviction. A stonemasonry business was fined $1.3 million after a tragic incident where a worker was fatally crushed at a Somerton factory. This case, along with many others, reinforces the importance of implementing strong workplace safety measures.
Key WorkSafe Findings in 2024:
- 36 employer penalties related to fall risks resulted in more than $1.66 million in fines. Falls from height remain a leading cause of workplace fatalities.
- 17 prosecutions involved unsafe machinery, 14 involved crushing risks, and 10 related to powered mobile plants such as forklifts.
- The highest number of health and safety breaches were in the construction (49), manufacturing (26), and transport, postal, and warehousing (10) industries.
- 12 cases linked to workplace fatalities resulted in $4.76 million in fines and costs.
- Five employers faced legal action for occupational violence, bullying, or harassment.
- 10 Enforceable Undertakings worth $3.4 million were issued to improve workplace safety knowledge and outcomes.
Prioritising Safety in Every Workplace
According to WorkSafe Executive Director of Health and Safety, Sam Jenkin, the most effective workplaces are those where employers actively engage with their teams to identify and address risks.
“Duty holders need to have systems and processes in place to identify, assess and respond to work-related hazards to their physical or mental health – including the risk of violence and hazards such as bullying or harassment,” he said.
This reinforces the importance of ongoing training, clear safety procedures, and a proactive approach to workplace wellbeing.
How The Proven Group Can Help
At The Proven Group, we believe that a safe workplace is a productive one. Our expert OHS consulting and training services can help your business stay compliant, reduce risks, and create a culture where safety comes first.
By working with us, you can ensure that your team is equipped with the right knowledge and tools to prevent workplace hazards, protect employees, and build a stronger, safer future for your organisation.
Visit theprovengroup.com.au to learn more about how we can support your workplace safety journey.
