TV commercials aim to cut workplace injuries and disease

18/3/96

A series of television commercials starting today will launch a concerted effort to cut the high cost and number of severe, long-term workplace injuries and disease.

Labour Relations Minister Graham Kierath said there was a small number of workers compensation claims that lasted longer than three months but these accounted for more than 60 per cent of reported costs in the workers' compensation system.

"WorkCover has committed itself to cutting long duration and high cost work related injuries by 10 per cent by 1997," Minister Kierath said.

"To help kick-start that campaign there will be a series of commercials starting today and running through to early April.

"They encourage doctors to work more closely with employers over staff injuries in the workplace, discuss the length of a worker's recovery time and the possibility of giving injured workers alternative duties during that recovery period.

"Clearer communication is the key to ensuring workers are returned to work as soon as possible."

Mr Kierath said WorkCover had also organised a series of seminars with high profile speakers like Fremantle Dockers coach Gerard Neesham and the team doctor as part of an education package for medical practitioners and employers.

The package has been developed by WorkCover in consultation with the Australian Medical Association WA branch and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The awareness campaign culminates in the last week of May with 'Injury Management Week' and focuses on best practice models in the workplace.

Media contact: Steve Manchee 481 2133