530 businesses focus on workplace safety

Eight workplace deaths so far this financial year have put the spotlight on workplace safety ahead of Safe Work Australia Week.

More than 500 West Australian businesses have registered to take part in events to promote workplace safety during the week which starts on Sunday.

Commerce Minister Bill Marmion said the tragic toll so far this financial year brings home the importance of keeping safety as a main priority in the workplace.

"Safe Work Australia Week is dedicated to raising awareness of workplace safety and reminding everyone in the workplace that safety should be kept at the top of the mind on an ongoing basis," he said.

Mr Marmion said since its launch five years ago the number of worksites taking part in the week has steadily increased.

"Activities and events taking place next week across the State will include information sessions; safety workshops; safety displays; training sessions; quizzes and competitions; and displays of safety promotional material," said Mr Marmion.

See ministers statement below:

Workplace safety and health will come under the spotlight from Sunday with the launch of Safe Work Australia week (October 24-30).

Commerce Minister Bill Marmion said more than 530 Western Australian businesses had registered activities to promote safety in the workplace.

"The number of worksites registering their participation in Safe Work Australia Week has steadily increased during the five years of the event's existence," Mr Marmion said.

"Activities and events taking place next week across the State will include information sessions; safety workshops; safety displays; training sessions; quizzes and competitions; and displays of safety promotional material.

"Unfortunately, eight West Australians have already lost their lives in the course of their work this financial year. This tragic toll really brings home the importance of keeping safety as the main priority at all times.

"Safe Work Australia Week is dedicated to raising awareness of workplace safety and reminding everyone in the workplace that safety should be kept at the top of the mind on an ongoing basis."

Key events of the week in WA will be the Work Safe 2010 Forum next Tuesday October 26 and the Safety Achievers Dinner on Friday night, October 29.

The Minister encouraged employers and employees to participate in the spirit of
Safe Work Australia Week by joining in with workplace activities during the week.

"The State Government takes occupational health and safety very seriously and will continue working hard to ensure WA workplaces are up to scratch," he said.

"Safe Work Australia Week provides the perfect opportunity to initiate a greater awareness of safety and health issues in workplaces."