Five common workplace safety myths debunked

October is National Safe Work Month, a reminder for employers and workers across Australia to commit to creating a safer environment and healthier workplace for all.

Last year, 200 people tragically lost their lives while at work, and more than 139,000 workers made compensation claims throughout Australia. There is an urgent need to do more to reduce these numbers.

Unfortunately, many individuals who have spent most of their adult lives working still don’t know what a safe workplace looks like. Our experienced team of work injury lawyers handle these matters every day and have helped thousands of Australians access compensation for their claims.

Here are some of the common myths and misconceptions we hear about safety in the workplace:

1. Myth: Workplace accidents are a part of the job.

False: The assumption from employers and employees that workplace accidents are just an unavoidable part of the job is a dangerous misconception. This mindset can lead to a lack of proactive measures and complacency in the workplace.

Many workplace accidents are entirely preventable. Proactive measures, such as regular safety audits, effective training programs and up-to-date safety protocols, are crucial. Thankfully, by focusing on a safer environment and healthier workplace, you can actively help prevent workplace accidents from becoming another part of the job.

2. Myth: Safety measures slow down productivity.

Not necessarily: Implementing safety protocols can significantly enhance productivity by reducing the frequency and severity of workplace injuries. In the past year alone, more than 139,000 serious workers’ compensation claims were made, which has resulted in many Australians taking extended leave from work. In many instances, the need for extended absences could have been avoided if better safety measures were implemented.

When safety precautions are not adhered to, the consequences can be severe. The median time lost from work-related injuries and illnesses has been steadily increasing over the past decade and now sits at more than seven weeks per claim in Australia. Safety is clearly in everyone’s interest. Employers can protect their employees and maintain an efficient and productive work environment by investing in safety measures that address all potential hazards in the workplace.

3. Myth: Reporting near misses is not important.

False: Reporting near misses, no matter how small, is an essential and effective way to identify hazards or weaknesses in the workplace. Reporting systems act as an early warning sign – drawing attention to oversights in the current safety system. Addressing near misses allows employers to make the necessary amendments to provide a safe work environment for their employees.

Failing to report near misses could lead to a lack of action by management on hazards that pose very real risks to workers and could harm others in the workplace. Reporting near misses supports an excellent safety culture within the workplace, where close calls are incentivised to be reported and addressed promptly.

4. Myth: Safety signs are enough to prevent accidents.

Not necessarily: Safety signs are a good reminder for employees and help prevent some accidents from occurring in the workplace, but they should not be the only measure of safety at your place of work. Relying solely on safety signs can create a false sense of security and may lead to employee complacency.

Every workplace will have different needs, but safety signs and warnings should be utilised in conjunction with regular training, sufficient support and proper equipment maintenance as part of a more comprehensive safety strategy.

These protocols not only help protect employees but can empower them to take an active role in maintaining a safe work environment beyond reliance on safety signs alone.

5. Myth: Workplace accidents only occur on the job site.

False: There is a misconception that workplace accidents can only occur on the job site. This overlooks that workplace accidents can happen in any work environment, including offices, remote work locations and during work-related travel.

To reduce the risks for all job settings, employers should conduct thorough risk assessments for every work environment and ensure each setting meets the needs of its employees.

By recognising that workplace accidents can happen anywhere, both employers and employees can take the necessary steps to protect themselves regardless of their work location.

These are just a few common misconceptions people have about workplace safety, so if you’re in doubt about whether you have a claim, our workers’ compensation lawyers are here to help.