Edition Work is killing almost 3,000 Australians per year - and manufacturing and mining are two of the most dangerous industries. More people died from work-related causes than from suicides or road accidents. Only 450 of the 2,900 deaths were due to sudden or violent events in the workplace. The rest were caused by longer term exposure to unsafe or unhealthy conditions, including hazardous substances. The 45-54 age group is most at risk.
Mining is the most dangerous industry.
The highest overall number of male fatalities occurred in the manufacturing sector. Labourers were most likely to die. This suggests employers must lift their game dramatically on health and safety issues.