• about the framework
  • strategic linkages
  • purpose
  • vision
  • values
• emerging issues and challenges
  • ageing workforce
  • psychosocial factors
  • changes in employment relationships
  • changes in types of industry - growth of the service industry
• work related health issues
• recognition and reduction of occupational diseases is the key issue facing workplace health and safety
  • what needs to be done
• priority diseases and goals
  • noise induced hearing loss
  • cancer
  • contact dermatitis
  • respiratory diseases including asthma
  • infectious and parasitic diseases
  • mental disorders
  • cardiovascular disease
  • all occupational disease

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Emerging issues and challenges

Ageing workforce

Physical changes in older workers who may also have a chronic disease can lead to an increased risk of injury due to reduced muscular strength and aerobic capacity. Workplaces may also need to allow for visual and hearing deficits in older workers.

Psychosocial factors

Psychosocial factors affect physical injury, particularly the development of musculoskeletal disorders. There is a need to focus on practical strategies for influencing these factors, including: improving relationships at work; increasing job control; providing support; managing change and job demands; and ensuring recognition and reward and appropriate skill use.

The 24 hour economy will ensure that safe working hours, extended work hours, excessive overtime, shift work and fatigue will be key issues in relation to workplace health and safety. There is some research showing an association with sleep loss and increased accident risk while commuting home. There is suggestive evidence of a link between night-shift work and an increased risk of heart disease and diabetes.

Changes in employment relationships

Workers in the first month of a new job are over four times more likely to have a lost time injury than workers with over one year in their current job. With increasing use of labour hire, agency workers and casuals, there is a need to address safety training and skills. Lack of job security can also contribute to psychosocial stress.

Internationally, downsizing and restructuring has been associated with: increased fatalities, injuries and work-related musculoskeletal disorders; psychological distress; unhealthy behaviours; increased blood pressure and increased cardiovascular disease.

Changes in types of industry – growth of the service industry

Growth in the health and community services, retail, construction, property and business services service industry is anticipated with a decline in the numbers of persons employed in manufacturing and rural industries. Skill shortages in these areas may increase the risk of injury and illness.