News

Italian sociologist Vilfredo Pareto (1848-1923) is best known for his namesake principle the “Pareto” rule, which states that for many distributions, approximately 80% of outputs are driven by just 20% of possible inputs (called “the vital few”). The converse of this is that the other 80% of inputs – “the trivial many” – drive only […] Read More

As evidence-based medicine has become the gold standard of medical care and timely return-to-work, ODG by MCG has become the industry standard for disability, workers’ compensation, and auto liability claims. ODG services a wide range of clients striving to decrease disability durations by providing treatment guidelines and analytical tools to help stakeholders in these industries […] Read More

Reliable data is critical for auto insurance carriers to accurately forecast claim costs and durations. Using such data from the Property & Casualty (P&C) side (i.e., auto or workers’ compensation claims) is incredibly helpful for this, however, we know that such claims are impacted by policy limits, liability, and litigation. It’s important to have access […] Read More

It is well-known that the workers’ compensation industry is very complex as it covers a variety of professions including medical, legal, and customer service. At the core of this multidisciplinary field is the claims adjuster. Adjusters shoulder the management of workers’ compensation claims and often handle hundreds of claims at once to help injured workers […] Read More

The auto insurance industry’s fierce price competition is forcing rapid change. Auto insurance carriers who aren’t leveraging new technology and ideas to gain efficiency are losing the price war, and in turn, market share. For decades, these carriers have faced – and attempted to combat – rising medical costs. The traditional method of negotiating and […] Read More

As the workers’ compensation industry emerges from (learns to live with?) COVID-19, stakeholders are finding many of the same pharmaceutical issues we thought we left behind in 2019. In many states, opioids, compounds, topicals, and poorly controlled drug costs are back on the radar. Among the questions accompanying them is “to formulary or not to […] Read More

Example Decision Document Template Marcus Twohig Wed, 2021-12-08 09:43 This template is part of the National Exemption Framework document package and provides an indication of the type of document sent to applicants once the work health and safety regulator has made a decision about an exemption application. Off Model WHS Laws Model Work Health and […] Read More

Guide for Applicants for Exemptions Marcus Twohig Wed, 2021-12-08 09:44 This guide is part of the National Exemption Framework document package and explains the powers to grant exemptions from the requirements of the WHS Regulations. This guide should be read in conjunction with material provided by your state or territory WHS regulator. Off Model WHS […] Read More

Example Application for Exemption under the WHS Regulations Marcus Twohig Wed, 2021-12-08 09:40 This example application is part of the National Exemption Framework document package and provides an indication of the type of document which must be completed prior to lodgement of an exemption application to your jurisdictional work health and safety regulator. Off Model […] Read More

National Return to Work 2021 Survey initial findings Marcus Twohig Fri, 2021-12-03 15:45 06 Dec 2021 Safe Work Australia has published the 2021 National Return to Work Survey Headline Measures Report. The report provides an overview of key return to work measures captured in the 2021 National Return to Work Survey – Australia’s only national […] Read More

Workers’ compensation premiums Marcus Twohig Fri, 2021-11-26 10:05 The Comparative Performance Monitoring report analyses trends in WHS and workers’ compensation scheme performance across Australia and New Zealand. This section provides a national and jurisdictional overview of the standardised average premium rates by industry in the past 5 years. Work health and safety performance Work health […] Read More

Clean Air. Clear Lungs. campaign – Presentation Marcus Twohig Thu, 2021-11-25 14:24 Publication Date 25 Nov 2021 Last Updated Thu, 2021-11-25 12:00 Watch on YouTube Tag by Risk Management All management Sam Hamilton, Director Occupational Diseases and Hygiene Policy  presenting to the Australasian University Safety Association. Video Summary: Safe Work Australia launched the Clean Air. […] Read More

Overview of SWA and occupational lung diseases – Presentation Marcus Twohig Thu, 2021-11-25 14:40 Publication Date 25 Nov 2021 Watch on YouTube Document type Video and audio Tag by Risk Management All management Sam Hamilton, Director Occupational Diseases and Hygiene Policy presenting to the Australasian University Safety Association. Video Summary: Occupational lung diseases are work-related lung […] Read More

Australian workers’ compensation statistics 2019-20 Marcus Twohig Mon, 2021-11-22 11:21 22 Nov 2021 Safe Work Australia has published the Australian workers’ compensation statistics 2019-20 report, which provides the latest national statistics on accepted serious workers’ compensation claims. Key findings in 2019-20 include: There were 120,355 serious workers’ compensation claims. 31% of serious claims were for […] Read More

The Scenario: George, a 47-year-old male, injured his back at work two days ago putting a box on a shelf. He is seeing his primary care physician for the first time. George’s physical assessment revealed low back pain with tenderness upon palpation. No leg pain or numbness. He has no confounding factors. The primary physician […] Read More

Test rss Ben Tue, 2021-11-16 10:16 Read More

How long can the grand bargain of workers’ compensation survive if my quid starts to outweigh your quo? That’s the question some California stakeholders are posing in the face of a wrongful death lawsuit currently winding through the state’s courts. The case presents a novel question of tort immunity for a workers’ comp community still […] Read More

Quite often, stakeholders managing various aspects of workers’ compensation claims spend countless hours each day trying to do what is best for injured workers. However, knowing what is best can be elusive. Typically, claim managers focus on: Ensuring state government forms are filed in a timely manner Making three-point contacts and related calls as scheduled […] Read More

Thesworkers compensation guidelines for the approval of treating allied health practitioners have been updated, following a review. The guidelines apply to accredited exercise physiologists, chiropractors, counsellors, osteopaths, physiotherapists and psychologists. Read More

One of the most frequently asked questions at the ODG Helpdesk is: “How do I find duration values for a diagnosis, and how does it differ between diagnosis vs. claim level when managing return-to-work (RTW)?” An example of determining the difference can be found below. Let’s use ICD-10 Code S33.5 for this example. As the […] Read More

Food Investments Pty Ltd (George Weston Foods) has applied to the State Insurance Regulatory Authority for a group self-insurer licence which will also cover the following wholly owned employing subsidiaries: Read More

The NSW Government has today commenced consultation on potential personal injury insurance arrangements for food delivery riders injured or killed at work. Read More

In 2015, the City of Fort Worth, Texas, had 6,250 employees and calculated total workers’ compensation costs, claims plus indemnity payments, at $9.7 million. The city leadership sought more effective ways to reduce workers’ compensation costs and still help employees received the appropriate care to support quality outcomes and return to work. However, before the city […] Read More

The State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) is conducting a repeat survey with selected claimants to better understand the customer experience and recovery of people who have made either a workers compensation or compulsory third party (CTP) insurance claim. Read More

Weekly statutory benefits payable under thesMotor Accident Injuries Act 2017 must be indexed on 1 April each year. Read More

The ever-growing list of new federal, state, and local leave mandates has made administrative functions more crucial than ever to the effective operation of integrated absence management (IAM) programs. However, we sometimes let Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) constraints intimidate us into relinquishing medical case management. When we do this, we are forfeiting […] Read More

While compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is generally assigned to human resources (HR), employers can use the help of clinicians to build programs that facilitate ADA compliance. The ADA went into effect in 1990, with major amendments effective January 2009 to expand the definition of disability. Title I of the ADA obligates […] Read More

At the beginning of a claim, it can be difficult to know if or when referring to a case manager would be helpful. Having a case manager at the beginning of every claim would seem valuable, but it would dramatically increase overall costs, stretch limited resources too thin, and might fail to focus on critical […] Read More

Long before Tiger King clawed out his fifteen minutes of fame, there was Clark Stanley, a.k.a. the “Rattlesnake King.” Stanley, a silver-tongued Texan born in 1854, found fame and fortune in the late 1800s with “Clark Stanley’s Snake Oil Liniment.” He sold his salve across the country as a cure for “pain, lameness, rheumatism, neuralgia, […] Read More

We have all seen cases involving a “simple” back sprain claim that we don’t pay much attention to, only to find ourselves with the claim remaining open a few years later with no sign of the claimant ever returning to preinjury functional level. What is the difference between this claim and a similar one that […] Read More

The newsPersonal Injury Commission and Independent ReviewsOfficescommencesoperationssfroms1 March 2021. This will change the way workers compensation and CTP claim disputessand complaints about insurers aresmanaged. Read More

SIRA has amendedsthesStandards of practice: Expectations for insurer claims administration and conduct (Standards) to include a new Standardsforsthe management of psychological injury claimss(Standard 33) which will take effect froms1 March 2021. Read More

SIRA has advised surgeons and relevant medical groups of planned changes to surgical fees in the NSW workers compensation scheme. The proposed change will bring surgical fees in workers compensation in line with AMA rates and fees paid in the CTP scheme, while still being among the highest of all Australian jurisdictions. Read More

The State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) is conducting qualitative research with selected claimants to better understand the customer experience and recovery of people who have made either a workersscompensation or compulsory third party (CTP) insurance claim. Read More

B.I.C. Services Pty Limited, (‘BIC’) has applied to the State Insurance Regulatory Authority for a self-insurer licence. Read More

The State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) is conductingsqualitative research with selected claimants to better understand the customer experience and recovery of people who have made either a workers compensation or compulsory third party (CTP) insurance claim. Read More

This edition includes details on: Read More

This newsletter includes information on the following appointments to the Personal Injury Commission: Read More

This edition includes details on: Read More

The John Walsh Centre for Rehabilitation Research (JWCRR)swas commissioned tosundertakesa rapid review of evidence relating to best practice diagnosis and treatment of noise-induced hearing loss. The review also looked at how compensation schemes might best measure the outcomes for ONIHL claims. Read More

Life Without Barriers has applied to the State Insurance Regulatory Authority for a group self-insurer licence which will also cover the following wholly owned employer subsidiaries. Read More

The State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) is conducting a repeat survey with selected claimants to better understand the customer experience and recovery of people who have made either asworkers compensation or compulsory third party (CTP) insurance claim. Read More

Comfort DelGro Corporation Australia Pty Ltd, (‘Comfort DelGro’) has applied to the State Insurance Regulatory Authority for a group self-insurer licence which will also cover the following wholly owned employing subsidiaries. Read More

In August 2020, a truck driver suffered serious injuries falling from his trailer. Read More

In this edition: Outstanding school artwork featured in 2021 Farm Safety Calendar; $16,000 fine after farm worker gets electric shock; Dangers of plants touching powerlines; New record-keeping and training requirements for chemical use; Simple changes at grass roots help boost farm safety and more… Read More

After pleading guilty, Ardent Leisure Limited has been sentenced in the Southport Magistrates Court in relation to Thunder River Rapids Ride tragedy at Dreamworld on 25 October 2016, where four people lost their lives. Read More

The creative works of a dozen Queensland primary school students from Prep through to Grade 6 will appear in the 2021 Farm Safety calendar following a competition run by Workplace Health and Safety Queensland. Read More

In August 2020, a man suffered serious injuries after falling from an earthmoving machine he was apparently doing maintenance on. Early investigations indicate the man fell while exiting the machine. Read More

Yatala based Oil Tech International Pty Ltd was recently fined $800,000 over a workplace incident in which a man was burnt to death. Read More

In July 2020, a farm worker died after he lost control of a quad bike. It appears he attempted to avoid a kangaroo and lost control of the vehicle. Read More

In July 2020, a truck driver received serious injuries after being struck by a hay bale. Early investigations indicate hay bales were being unloaded by a forklift while the truck driver was doing something else, when for reasons yet to be established, a bale fell and struck him. Read More

Following successful court action recently, the Electrical Safety Office is warning rogue operators against performing electrical work without an appropriate licence. Read More

Electricity Safety Week (7-11 September) is Queensland’s annual reminder that while electricity helps power up our everyday lives, it can also be deadly. Read More

The Queensland Government is stepping up its blitz on unlicensed operators advertising through online marketplaces like AirTasker to do home electrical tasks illegally. Read More

In June 2020, a worker suffered crush injuries to his arms and hands after an excavator bucket collided with waste oil drums while he was preparing to attach lifting equipment. Read More

In this edition: Ardent Leisure pleads guilty, New quad bike safety standard to reduce risks; Case study: All Access Crewing – managing on site traffic; $50,000 fine for Second Range Crossing concrete pump truck tip; New guidance on managing fatigue; New Work Health and Safety Board members; Respirable crystalline silica dust compliance campaign launch; and […] Read More

A sheet metal fabrication business and a company director have both appeared before Beenleigh Magistrates Court this week over a workplace incident in which a young work experience student had the tip of his finger amputated. Read More

The independent Work Health and Safety Prosecutor, Mr Aaron Guilfoyle, has commenced an industrial manslaughter prosecution against the owner of a Gympie business which sells and services electric motors. Read More

In June 2020, a grader was doing road works at a construction site when it struck a worker who suffered serious leg injuries. Read More

Ahead of Electricity Safety Week (7-11 September), a series of electrical safety awareness sessions have been scheduled around regional Queensland to coincide with local home shows. Read More

The John Walsh Centre for Rehabilitation Research (JWCRR) completed a rapid review of recent studies to identify best practicesinsthe management ofschronicspain in a compensable population. Read More

For 1 Octobers2020sindexationsof costs and fees,spleasesseesbelow updates: Read More

This newsletter includes information on the following appointments to the Personal Injury Commission: Read More

Crown Resorts Limited, (‘Crown Resorts’) has applied to the State Insurance Regulatory Authority for a group self-insurer licence which will also cover the following wholly owned employing subsidiaries: Read More

The John Walsh Centre for Rehabilitation Research (JWCRR) completed a rapid review of recent studies to identify best practice use of opioid medication for the management of pain in a compensable population. Read More

The Personal Injury Commission (PIC) legislation was passed by the NSW Parliament on 5 August 2020.ssIt was assented to on 11 August with an establishment date of 1 March 2021. Read More

ThesMotor Accidents Compensation Regulation 2020 comes intoseffect froms1 September 2020sand appliessto claims made prior to 1 December 2017. Read More

The State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA), in partnership with icare, welcomes you to join the John Walsh Centre for Rehabilitation Research (JWCRR) Personal Injury Research Seminar. Read More

The NSW Government will deliver a new one-stop shop Personal Injury Commission (PIC) to simplify the dispute resolution system for injured road users and workers who make a compensation claim, following its approval today by NSW Parliament. Read More

SIRA welcomes input into a consultation on a proposed health outcomes and reporting framework for the NSW workers compensation and CTP schemes. Read More

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The finalised rates for WorkCover Queensland’s industry classifications (WIC) for 2020–2021 have now been published in the Queensland Government Gazette dated 26 June 2020. Read More

The Palaszczuk Government will not increase the WorkCover premium rate, as businesses across the state battle to cope with the challenges of COVID-19. Read More

WorkCover Queensland has reviewed and updated the Allied health table of costs for 2020. The changes take effect from 1 July 2020. Read More

In April 2020, a young worker was injured after being struck by a lifting chain hook while helping a colleague move equipment. They were using a crane in a storage yard. Read More

If you’ve held your electrical contractor licence as an individual or partnership and have restructured your business as a company, you may need a new electrical contractor licence in the name of the company. Read More

In April 2020, a man suffered serious injuries after being crushed by a frontend loader. Initial enquiries found the operator got out of the cabin to untie a hay bale when the vehicle started rolling down a slope. It appears the operator was attempting to re-enter the cabin when he was trapped between the moving […] Read More

We’ve released our new Electrical contractor guide – Developing a safe system of work for electrical work. This guide will assist electrical contractors, qualified technical persons and qualified business owners to develop a safe system of work for their business. Read More

We know it’s a difficult time and you’ve got a lot on your mind. It’s hard to not worry about providing for your family, how to keep your business running and keep your licences and how to pay for it. Read More

In this edition: Farm safety calendar has lessons for all; Working safely with pesticides; Seasonal workers and harvest season; COVID-19 horticulture guide; Fencing contractor fined $25,000; Health and wellbeing tips for challenging working times; and more… Read More

A Brisbane construction company has been fined $85,000 for failing to ensure a work site in Lutwyche was electrically safe. Read More

We have received a number of reports from members of the public who have been contacted by a person purporting to be from WorkCover and asking they contact him about the claim they have lodged with WorkCover. Read More

In May 2020, two men were seriously injured after falling approximately 1.5m after a trestle and plank system failed while performing housing construction work. In a separate incident, a contractor suffered serious injuries as a result of falling around 3m to the floor below when the makeshift work platform he was working on collapsed. Read More

The NSW Government has introduced a Bill to establish a one-stop shop Personal Injury Commission (PIC), to simplify the dispute resolution system for injured road users and workers who make a compensation claim. Read More

The State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) is conducting a survey to better understand the customer experience and recovery of people claiming workers compensation and compulsory third party (CTP) insurance. Read More

Liberty Holdings Australia Limited, (‘LHA’) has applied to the State Insurance Regulatory Authority for a group self-insurer licence covering the following wholly owned employing subsidiaries: Read More

EstiasInvestments PtysLimiteds(EstiasHealth)shas applied to the State Insurance Regulatory Authority for a self-insurer licence. Read More

The State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) is seeking comments on the proposed Motor Accidents Compensation Regulation 2020 and Regulatory Impact Statement (RIS). Read More

We need feedback on guidelines for giving a WHS undertaking under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011. Read More

We need your help to test the Beta version of the new Comcare website. Read More

The latest research from the Collaborative Partnership aims to improve work participation for people with a health condition or disability. Read More

It is critical that we forge powerful research partners that help us understand and anticipate future challenges. Read More

Natalie Bekis, our GM Strategic Partnerships and Engagement will present at the Actuaries Institute of Australia’s Injury & Disability Schemes Seminar. Read More

A new publication that will help general practitioners (GPs) with their role in supporting work participation was released today. Read More

The Medical Items Table of Costs has been updated to reflect MBS changes up to 17 March 2020, which include amendments to intensive care and emergency medicine and new COVID-19 telehealth items. New diagnostic imaging fees have also been released, effective 1 April 2020. Read More

Comcare has issued updated guidance on work health and safety and workers’ compensation in relation to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. Read More

Comcare has issued updated guidance on work health and safety and workers’ compensation in relation to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. This includes: Notification to the regulator Working from home Mental health and wellbeing Work health and safety obligations Managing risks Guidance and resources Workers’ compensation and claims Working remotely Employer support. The guidance is available […] Read More

In January, an interstate truck driver suffered multiple leg fractures when a stone slab fell off the back of a truck. It appears the stone was secured to an ‘A’ frame with straps. Early investigations indicate that when the driver removed the straps, the stone slabs toppled and struck him. In February, a truck driver […] Read More

After a hearing in the Brisbane Magistrates Court last Wednesday, an edge protection company has been fined $50,000 for failing to comply with its primary safety duty under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, exposing workers to risk of serious injury or death from roof falls. Read More

The impacts of COVID-19 continue to evolve across Queensland, Australia and the rest of the globe. WorkCover Queensland is focussed on the health, well-being and safety of our own staff, our customers and our stakeholders. Read More

There is currently a shortage of disposable particulate respirators in Australia due to an increase in demand from health care workers and from the public and because many Chinese manufacturers have temporarily shut down. Read More

The model WHS Act has been amended to ensure WHS regulators have appropriate powers to deal with prohibited asbestos when it is found in a workplace. Read More

The Department of Defence has been convicted and fined $300,000 after a Sydney high school student was seriously injured during an army cadet camp. Read More

Exposure to COVID-19 is a potential hazard for workers and other people at workplaces. Read More

In December 2019, a worker suffered serious injury after falling approximately 5m through a roof whilst doing maintenance on a shed. In a similar incident in February 2020, a man died after falling through the roof of a building. Early investigations indicate he was repairing a skylight. Read More

Comcare has issued guidance on work health and safety and workers’ compensation in relation to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. More here Read More

Comcare has issued guidance for workers and employers on work health and safety and workers’ compensation in relation to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. Read More

A $50,000 fine was handed out in a Brisbane court this week over an incident in which a nine-year-old boy was injured when he fell off an inflatable amusement device he was riding. Read More

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Comcare has drafted guidelines that outline the purpose, acceptance process and procedure for giving a WHS undertaking under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth) (WHS Act). A WHS undertaking is a legally binding written commitment given by a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) to implement effective health and safety initiatives that […] Read More

Comcare has drafted guidelines that outline the purpose, acceptance process and procedure for giving a WHS undertaking under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth) (WHS Act). A WHS undertaking is a legally binding written commitment given by a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) to implement effective health and safety initiatives that […] Read More

In December 2019, a worker suffered serious injury when his arm was caught in a hopper. Early investigations indicate the open hopper contained metal shafts and stainless-steel rods that rotated to mix dough ingredients. Read More

In this edition: Kids urged to be Ride Ready on quad bikes over busy holiday period, Registrations open for 2020 MSD Symposium, $75,000 fine after serious sugar mill injury leads to amputation, Work safely with asbestos after summer storms, Latest innovations targeting sun safety, New report on work-related musculoskeletal disorders, and much more. Read More

The Beta Comcare website has been released. We need your help testing the Beta version, to ensure the new website does as we intend. Read More

The Beta Comcare website has been released. We need your help testing the Beta version, to ensure the new website does as we intend. Read more. Read More

Coroner James MacDougall conducted an exhaustive inquest following the tragic deaths of Cindy Low, Kate Goodchild, Luke Dorsett and Roozi Araghi on the Thunder River Rapids Ride at Dreamworld on 25 October 2016. Read More

The Queensland Government accepts the coroner’s findings. The matter has been referred to the independent Work Health and Safety Prosecutor to decide whether action will be taken against Dreamworld’s owner, Ardent Leisure, under the Work Health and Safety Act. Read More

WorkCover Queensland has now completed the open tender process to appoint a new return to work services panel. Read More

Electrical Safety Office inspectors are visiting Queensland workplaces and will take enforcement action if they identify un-managed fire and explosion risks. This action can include compliance notices or immediately prohibiting the use of electrical equipment in hazardous areas until risk controls are implemented and verified. Read More

A sole trader operating as a fencing contractor has been sentenced and fined $25,000 in the Mount Isa Magistrates Court for breaches relating to duty of care under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011. Read More

These guides are the first of a series of updated and new health monitoring guides that will be published over the coming months. Read More

Our latest scheme performance data is now available here. Read More

Under the model WHS Regulations, a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) must provide health monitoring for workers if they carry out ongoing work using, handling, generating or storing crystalline silica, and there is a significant risk to the worker’s health because of exposure. Read More

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has conducted another meeting of Queensland’s Disaster Management Committee, the third in as many days. The group, including Queensland’s Chief Medical Officer, is co-ordinating the state’s Coronavirus response. Read More

The Comparative Performance Monitoring report 21st edition and Comparison of Workers’ Compensation Arrangements in Australia and New Zealand 2019 have been published. Read More

Heat and air pollution from bushfires can be hazardous and can cause harm to people working in both indoor and outdoor work environments. Read More

In this edition: Bushfire damage and asbestos; Unlicensed labour hire provider in Emerald fined $60,000; Agri-workers reap benefit of award-winning safety campaigns; Review into 2,4-D recommends handling changes; Case study: A team approach to the welfare of all workers; Get in early and book your free Safety Advocate visit for 2020; Electrical Safety Codes of […] Read More

Comcare is recruiting in Launceston and Darwin. More here. Read More

Chinese New Year is one of the busiest times of year for Queensland’s dive and snorkel industry. Many people are visiting the Great Barrier Reef and other destinations to dive or snorkel, often for the first time. Read More

The new year is a great time for a quick safety check of your business before things get busy. Read More

Continued guidance on electrical safety standards remains available following the automatic expiry of three electrical safety codes of practice on 1 January 2020. Read More

This report provides the latest workers’ compensation data, including occupation and industry data. Read More

Workplaces must have measures in place to protect worker health and safety and manage risks. Read More

With bushfires impacting communities across Australia, Comcare would like to advise PCBUs (Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking) of their obligations under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011. Read More

With bushfires impacting communities across Australia, Comcare would like to advise PCBUs (Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking) of their obligations under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulations 2011. PCBUs must ensure they provide and maintain a safe working environment for their workers in indoor and outdoor environments so as […] Read More

In October 2019, a man died on a rural property died after being crushed by the tractor he was operating. Initial findings suggest he was reversing the tractor into a deep excavation, when for reasons yet to be established, the tractor rolled. Read More

In this edition: Kids urged to be Ride Ready on quad bikes over busy holiday period, Registrations open for 2020 MSD Symposium, $75,000 fine after serious sugar mill injury leads to amputation, Work safely with asbestos after summer storms, Latest innovations targeting sun safety, New report on work-related musculoskeletal disorders, and much more. Read More

In November 2019, a truck driver sustained serious lacerations to his leg when he was struck by building materials which had fallen off a pallet. Read More

In November, a young child was submerged underwater for less than two minutes at a supervised public pool. On-duty lifeguards administered CPR until QAS officers arrived and took over. The child was taken to hospital and later passed away. Read More

Parts of Australia have been experiencing reduced outdoor air quality as a result of bushfire smoke and airborne dust. Read More

The latest research from the Collaborative Partnership to improve work participation addresses an important gap in evidence on empowerment strategies for people with a health condition or disability to use work as part of their recovery. Read More

Following a review of restricted electrical work licences (RELs), you will see a few changes to how it looks when you renew and receive your new licence card. Read More

In October 2019, a compact track loader (commonly known as a posi-track or bobcat) was moving spoil on a construction site when it reversed into a worker who suffered serious leg injuries. Read More

A qualified carpenter working on a Gold Coast house has been fined $20,000 over a workplace incident which left his apprentice with a fractured leg. Read More

With many workplaces about to get together for Christmas break up parties, employers are reminded that the “silly season” is not an excuse to disregard safety, including the responsible service of alcohol. Read More

Safe Work Australia has published a new report on work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Read More

Queenslanders have been reminded to keep their kids safe on quad bikes as the school holidays and weeks of free time approach. Read More

New guidance for tenants and property owners about electrical safety in rental properties is now available. Read More

The purpose of this safety alert is to inform zip line owners, operators, engineers and riggers of the risk of failure of zip line terminations and to provide guidance to help prevent the failure of zip lines. Read More

Working in heat can be hazardous and can cause harm to workers in both indoor and outdoor work environments. Read More

AS/NZS3012:2019 Electrical installations – Construction and demolition sites was published on 4 November 2019. The new edition contains several changes from the 2010 edition. Read More

A Brisbane builder was fined $24,000 this week over breaches of Queensland work safety laws which posed a serious risk to workers. Read More

In October 2019, a patron died, and another was seriously injured while using a zipline attraction as part of a rainforest adventure tour. Read More

The Electrical Licensing Committee has disqualified an electrical worker from holding an electrical work or contractor licence for five years. He had advertised his services online to perform unlicensed electrical contracting work. Read More

Australia’s working landscape is changing and it is critical that we forge powerful research partners that help us understand and anticipate the challenges that lie ahead. More here. Read More

Australia’s working landscape is changing and it is critical that we forge powerful research partners that help us understand and anticipate the challenges that lie ahead. Read More

A Brendale company and one of its officers have been fined $54,000 after a woman was injured when a water tank being delivered to her Morton Vale property struck her. Read More

Applications are open for Workplace Rehabilitation Providers in the Comcare scheme with a new framework that aims to improve approvals, renewals and monitoring. Submit your application by 31 December 2019. More information about eligibility, criteria, standards and performance monitoring here. Read More

A large national company with ties to an international entity which specialises in the manufacturing and supply of industrial gases was yesterday sentenced in the Richlands Magistrates Court. Read More

WorkCover Queensland has reviewed and updated the table of costs for medical treatment applicable for workers’ compensation in Queensland. The changes are effective 1 December 2019 and impact the Medical items table of costs and the Supplementary services table of costs for GPs and Specialists. Read More

Learn about the risks of storing swimming pool chemicals. Read More

Safe Work Australia has released the Work-related Traumatic Injury Fatalities Australia 2018 report, which provides the latest detailed national statistics on all workers and bystanders fatally injured through work-related activity. Read More

During September 2019, the Electrical Licensing Committee held disciplinary hearings against five licence holders. Read More

Guild Insurance Limited (‘Guild’) has applied to the State Insurance Regulatory Authority to expand its Defined Industry to include the early learning sector. Read More

Injured workers will be eligible for two new benefits that provide further support for them to return to work. Read More

The Licensing framework for specialised insurers requires SIRA to provide notification on its website when an application to renew an existing licence is received. Read More

Minister for Innovation and Better Regulation Victor Dominello today announced further changes to the state’s workers compensation regulations, which boosts benefits for injured workers to assist in their recovery and return to work. Read More

The inaugural Board of the State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) has been appointed by NSW Minister for Innovation and Better Regulation Victor Dominello. Read More

A qualified electrician with an interest in asbestos, House Rules winner Luke Cook will preside over the first ever Healthy Lungs Forum in Brisbane on Wednesday 27 November 2019. Read More

Natalie Bekis, Comcare’s GM Strategic Partnerships and Engagement is presenting at the Actuaries Institute of Australia’s Injury & Disability Schemes Seminar where the 2019 theme is Insights and Outcomes. Read More

Safe Work Australia recently published new guidance for Labour hire: duties of persons conducting a business or undertaking. Read More

This decision regulation impact statement (decision RIS) is about the framework for workplace exposure standards under the model Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws and how it should be kept up to date. Read More

This safety alert concerns the collapse of a Callaghan 37 metre concrete placing boom and includes actions to be taken by boom owners to avoid similar incidents. Read More

Learn how to prepare chemical registers, manifests and site plans. Read More

The purpose of this health and safety alert is to inform workers, employers, builders and designers of the risk of failure of lifting clutches associated with tilt-up and pre-cast concrete erection. Read More

The report shows that in 2018, 144 people were fatally injured at work. The number and rate of worker fatalities have continued to decline in line with long-term trends. Read More

National Safe Work Month may be over for 2019 but staying safe doesn’t end here. Be a safety champion in your workplace every day. Read More

In July 2019, a worker was manually handling goat carcasses when he was trapped by a hydraulically operated stainless-steel bucket, sustaining fatal crush injuries. Read More

This alert highlights the potential risks when releasing the brakes of a trailer when it is not connected to a prime mover, towing a trailer with plant that is not designed to tow, and designing and using landing legs. Read More

This alert is to highlight the importance of managing the risk to health and safety of falling objects. Read More

This alert highlight the risks associated with removing guards and using incorrect discs on angle grinders. Read More

This alert highlights the risk of exposure to asbestos in bunsen burner gauze mats. Read More

This Alert concerns the risk of injury due to an engineering characteristic of specific plant that may be in use. Read More

Three companies have been charged over two separate incidents that caused injuries to workers during the redevelopment of Perth’s Campbell Barracks. Read More

Prosecutors have filed federal work health and safety charges against the Department of Defence after a worker suffered critical injuries during a maintenance operation. Read More

UPDATE: Thales Australia Ltd pleaded not guilty to eight charges of failing in its duties under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, and the matter went to trial in May 2018. Magistrate Daley found Thales guilty of two charges in January 2019 and the company was convicted and fined $160,000 on 27 March 2019. […] Read More

The Department of Defence has been charged with breaching Commonwealth work health and safety laws over the death of a soldier during a training exercise. Read More

CSIRO has been charged with breaching federal work health and safety laws over an explosion at a Melbourne research facility. Read More

Key decision makers have come together in Canberra to discuss the future of Australia’s first cross-sector alliance to improve work participation – the Collaborative Partnership. Read More

A 78% recovery rate has been achieved as part of Comcare’s trial of NewAccess – a Beyond Blue mental health coaching service. Read More

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This week, as part of National Safe Work Month, we’re focusing on managing risk and maintaining safety in the workplace. Read More

17 October 2019 Release of elevating work platforms audit report Safety News Read More

4 October 2019 Incident at the Port Pirie Smelter Incident Alert Read More

3 October 2019 Incident at Bowden construction site Incident Alert Read More

3 October 2019 Incident at Frome Street, Adelaide construction site Incident Alert Read More

30 September 2019 Be a Safety Champion during 2019 National Safe Work Month Media Release Read More

3 October 2019 Augusta Zadow Awards 2019 address domestic violence, sex industry Media Release Read More

26 September 2019 Suspension of Class A Asbestos Removal Licence Media Release Read More

12 September 2019 Fire at Whyalla Jetty Incident Alert Read More

24 September 2019 Angle grinder kickback Incident Alert Read More

11 September 2019 Work stopped on demolition site at Port Adelaide Media Release Read More

5 September 2019 SafeWork SA is satisfied no safety issue with ride at Royal Adelaide Show Media Release Read More

6 September 2019 Response to comments by CFMEU Media Release Read More

29 August 2019 SafeWork SA completes audit of 2019 Royal Adelaide Show rides Media Release Read More

28 August 2019 SafeWork SA secures second conviction over bullying of construction apprentice Media Release Read More

29 August 2019 Nyrstar incident Media Release Read More

23 August 2019 Heavy earthmoving equipment Safety Alert Read More

6 August 2019 Nyrstar incident Safety Alert Read More

21 August 2019 SafeWork SA secures conviction after worker falls from height Media Release Read More

31 July 2019 Lifts in private residences Safety News Read More

30 July 2019 Working with imported plant or pressure equipment Safety Alert Read More

In June 2019, two people used a high-pressure water blaster on a corrugated asbestos cement roof (super six roof). As a result, asbestos contaminated dust and debris (ACD) ended up on neighbouring residential properties. Read More

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Self-insured employers are required to notify us of any lump sum payments made to made to injured workers. Read More

ReturnToWorkSA Annual Report 2018-19. Read More

The ReturnToWorkSA Annual Report 2018-19 (PDF, 10000 KB) highlights the achievements of the Return to Work scheme, including ensuring the effective economic operation of the Scheme and realising the health benefits of work. Read More

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The Schedule of sums outlines any monetary amounts that need to be adjusted in the manner required by the Return to Work Act 2014 and/or the Return to Work Regulations 2015. Read More

Physiotherapy Management Plan Read More

Psychology Management Plan Read More

Osteopathy Management Plan Read More

The Chiropractic Management Plan, June 29. 2018. Read More

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National Return to Work Strategy 2020-2030 and ReturnToWorkSA’s initiatives and activities that support the five action areas of the plan and help to deliver positive return to work outcomes. Read More

Occupational Therapy Management Plan Read More

Exercise Physiology Management Plan Read More

In this edition: More successful prosecutions under Queensland’s labour hire laws, Queensland Safe Work Awards honour innovators; Scissor hoist death leads to fine and guarding improvements; Audits to target sprain and strain hazards; Reduce sedentary work and BeUpstanding!; and much more. Read More

Logan/Browns Plains sparkies in particular should keep an eye out for Dielle YK78 Model Residual Current Device (RCD) recalled by the supplier due to a risk of electrical fire and electric shock. Read More

The purpose of this safety alert is to highlight the risk of elastic energy being released when wear plates on excavator buckets or similar parts on other equipment are being removed or repaired. Read More

In a first for Queensland, the Work Health and Safety Prosecutor has commenced a prosecution against Brisbane Auto Recycling Pty Ltd for industrial manslaughter under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011. Read More

A Brisbane building company has been fined $110,000 after a worker fell and was impaled on a steel bar while constructing a Balmoral house. Read More

We have compiled many resources this year to show how workers, employers, individuals and business can champion WHS at their workplace. Anyone can be a safety champion and have a positive influence on WHS at their workplace. Read More

Today Safe Work Australia launches the National Return to Work Strategy 2020-2030. Read More

Today is the start of National Safe Work Month—a time to commit to building safe and healthy workplaces for all Australians. Read More

This National Safe Work Month Safe Work Australia recognises World Mental Health Day.  Read More

This National Safe Work Month, become a BeUpstanding Champion and encourage your workplace to stand up, sit less and move more. Read More

A Nerang poultry producer has been fined $90,000 after a worker was run over by a forklift that had its reverse warning beepers switched off because of noise complaints. Read More

WHO Knows May 2019 Newsletter The workers’ compensation landscape continues to evolve, with a number of important changes to State schemes. We provide a summary of the key items for your business to consider in the lead up to your renewal. Read More