Boaties safer with WorkCover safety partnership

8:57 AM Fri 31 Jul 2009 GMT

NSW Finance Minster Joe Tripodi said a new WorkCover initiative will assist the boating industry improve workplace safety.

Mr Tripodi said the partnership between WorkCover NSW and the Boating Industry Association of New South Wales would involve businesses across the recreational and light commercial boating industry such as retailers, manufacturers, marinas, mechanics, shipwrights and charter boat operators.

Mr Tripodi and WorkCover officials met with industry representatives at today's Sydney International Boat Show at Darling Harbour.

'The initiative will target key areas such as risk management and workplace consultation to assist businesses deliver sustainable occupational health and safety outcomes,' Mr Tripodi said.

'Across the state over 9000 workers are employed directly in the boating industry with 80 per cent employed in full-time work.

'During 2007-08 there were more than 175 injuries among boating industry workers in New South Wales costing the WorkCover Scheme more than $730,000.

'The partnership will make a significant contribution to raising awareness about workplace safety issues, hazard identification and risk reduction as well as how to safely return a worker to work following an injury,' he said.

Boating Industry Association of New South Wales General Manager, Roy Privett said the partnership will enhance the Association's capacity to support its members with proactive and industry specific approaches to managing occupational health and safety.

'Through closer ties with WorkCover, the BIA can build on our existing initiatives, and further develop the industry's ability to protect the health and wellbeing of our people,' Mr Privett said.

'We welcome the knowledge and resources of our new partner and look forward to the task ahead,' he said.

Minister Tripodi said that promoting a culture of safety across the boating industry will help create safer, more cost effective and more productive workplaces.

'WorkCover is committed to working in partnership with industry to achieve healthier work environments, reduce the incidence of injuries and improve workplace safety,' Mr Tripodi said.

Further workplace safety information is available from the website at www.workcover.nsw.gov.au or by calling 13 10 50.

by Kate Sullivan

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Boaties safer with WorkCover safety partnership

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