Construction forum puts focus on healthy workers

Industrial Relations Minister Grace Grace today officially opened the inaugural Queensland Construction Work Health Forum in Brisbane.

Ms Grace said the forum would hear from industry leaders about the latest research and best practice to manage work health risks in the construction industry.

“It’s no secret that healthy workers make for safer and more productive workplaces,” she said.

“And it’s no secret that reducing health risks and improving worker well-being in the construction industry is a priority for the Palaszczuk Government.

"That’s why I’m pleased to be opening today’s forum, which brings together 300 people working in the construction industry.

“It’s all about improving education and worker safety, so that everyone gets home safely after each day’s work – there’s nothing more important than that.”

Ms Grace said there were over 9,000 general workplace injuries in the Queensland construction industry each year.

“One in every 50 of those is a serious injury, and we need to work hard to reduce that number,” she said.

“Workers’ compensation costs are increasingly being driven by mental stress and musculoskeletal disorder-related claims, along with chronic diseases such as obesity.

“This highlights the importance of Investing in the health of all workers, and that’s also an investment in the business itself.

“Employees who are in top shape mentally and physically take fewer sick days and are much more productive – and that’s a win, win for all concerned.”

For more information on improving your workers’ health, visit worksafe.qld.gov.au.

Media Contact: Martin Philip 0427 919 548