THERE has been a significant increase in construction industry injury claims in the Western District in the last three years – a total of 164 claims - according to WorkSafe data.

Falls from heights, contact with electricity, and structural collapses are just some of the incidents that have contributed to the significant increase in injury claims.

Young workers remain the most at risk, with 35.7 per cent of accepted claims in regional construction coming from workers aged under 30.

The leading causes of injuries among regional construction workers in 2021 were; body stress - 35.9 per cent; falls, trips, and slips - 28.8 per cent; and being hit by a moving object - 22.8 per cent.

Tragically, three construction workers lost their lives due to workplace incidents in regional Victoria last year.

With the spike in housing construction adding pressure to employers and workers, focus on safety is as critical as ever despite the demands and challenges the industry might be facing.

“Every worker has the right to get home safe at the end of the day, and yet each year, hundreds of construction workers across rural and regional Victoria are injured at work," WorkSafe Health and Safety executive director, Narelle Beer said,

"We know that the industry continues to face pressure on supply and building material costs, as well as a shortage of qualified tradies to keep up with high demand, but it’s imperative that safety remains a priority for employers and workers.

"WorkSafe inspectors will continue to work with employers and construction workers across regional Victoria to help duty holders understand their obligations and encourage workers to put safety first."

Employers and tradies across regional Victoria have been reminded to put safety first on site, as building industry activity continues to ramp up across the state.

For information and guidance on preventing injuries in construction visit worksafe.vic.gov.au/construction.