Work-related fatalities

The number of work-related deaths in Australia decreased overall between 2003 and 2013. Safe Work Australia compiles statistics on work-related injuries and deaths in Australia. These statistics come from a range of sources, including files from the coroner’s office, workers' compensation data and the media.

Deaths caused by diseases, natural causes and suicide are not included in these statistics.

Number of deaths

In 2013, 196 Australians lost their lives in work-related accidents. Of these, 180 were men and 16 were women. This equates to 1.70 deaths for every 100,000 workers.

The most dangerous industries

Some industries are more dangerous than others. The number of deaths and death rates per 100,000 workers for the most dangerous industries is outlined in the table below.

Source: Safe Work Australia, 2015

The most dangerous occupations

Some occupations are more dangerous than others. The average annual death rate per 100,000 workers was:

• Machinery operators and drivers – 8.12 deaths
• Labourers – 3.55 deaths
• Managers – 1.99 deaths
• Technicians and trades workers – 1.68 deaths
• Community and personal service workers – 1.23 deaths
• Sales workers – 0.56 deaths
• Professionals – 0.47 deaths
• Clerical and administrative workers – 0.06 deaths.

Common causes of death

The most common causes of work-related injuries leading to death include:

• vehicle accidents
• being hit by moving or falling objects
• falling from a height
• electricity
• a non-road vehicle rolling over
• being trapped by moving machinery
• being assaulted by one or more people.

Where to get help

• Occupational Health and Safety Officer in your workplace
• Worksafe Victoria Tel. 1800 136 089
• Victorian Trades Hall Council (OH.& S Unit)
• National Association for Loss & Grief (NALAG) Tel. (02) 6882 9222