Work-related fatalities involving construction activities in Australia, 1982 to 1984 and 1989 to 1992

Trends in work-related fatalities in the construction industry were investigated using data collected as part of two national studies of work-related fatalities in Australia. Coronial records were used to describe fatal incidents in the construction industry during 1982-1984 and 1989-1992. Fatality rates in the construction industry decreased from 15.3 per 100,000 workers per year during 1982-1984 to 10.4 per 100,000 workers per year during 1989-1992. Falls from a height, contact with electricity, and vehicle incidents were the most common mechanisms of the fatal incident. Occupational health and safety agencies in Australia continue to look for effective mechanisms to lower the rate of fatal and non-fatal injury in the construction industry.12 page(s