OHS/WHS in Australia

• As of 1/9/2003, ALL businesses in Australia must have an OHS policy in place.
• In financial year 2005/2006, 6.4% of workers (690,000 people) experienced at least one work-related injury or illness.
• The cost of work-related injuries in financial year 2005/2006 to employers and the community was over $34.9 billion.
• 17% of sprain or strain injuries (approx 207,000) reported in financial year 2005/2006 were caused by repetitive movements such as typing or mousing.
• "Presenteeism" - Where workers turn up but cannot function properly because they are ill or injured cost the economy an estimated $25.7 billion in 2006. "Absenteeism" cost $7 billion.

Australian Bureau of Statistics – Australian Social Trends, 2007 – Work-related injuries
The Age – Perk Cuts Employers Pain