Every October, Safe Work Australia organises National Safe Work Month to promote workplace safety nationwide. This initiative aims to create more resilient, risk-aware work environments, ensuring the wellbeing of workers and enhancing their ability to respond effectively in times of emergency.

Key Insights

  • Emergency workers attended 95,411 incidents and 413,570 emergencies in 2022-23, up 36.4% and 5.7% respectively year-on-year[1].
  • Victoria's emergency services addressed over 1 million incidents by road in 2022-2023, an increase of 10,397 incidents from 2021.
  • Over 40% of emergency workers and nearly 33% of volunteers have reported being diagnosed with a mental health condition[2].

Safety risks and injuries in emergency services

In Australia, firefighters sustain 100 injuries per 1,000 workers, resulting in a loss of 721 weeks of work annually, three times higher than all other occupations. Paramedics experience the highest rate of injury claims at 150 per 1,000 workers[3].

According to Safe Work Australia, emergency workers often deal with physical injuries like strains, sprains and fractures, intensified by the demanding nature of their jobs. The psychological toll is also deeply concerning, with repeated exposure leading to traumatic episodes, putting emergency responders at greater risk for conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and chronic depression.

Beyond these risks, emergency workers are exposed to hazardous chemicals during spill responses, risking contact with toxic and flammable substances. To protect the wellbeing of our dedicated first responders and emergency workers, the best safety measures and mental health support are required.

What can employers do to keep their workforce safe?

  • Providing adequate training and support
    Employers should establish training programs that emphasise the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and best practices when dealing with hazardous materials. They should also invest in ergonomic equipment and offer training on safe lifting techniques to combat high rates of musculoskeletal injuries.
  • Supporting mental health
    Employers should foster mentally healthy workplaces that reduce self-stigma and encourage open discussions and support for those experiencing mental health issues. They should have in place strategies for suicide prevention and identifying suitable alternative roles for workers affected by mental health conditions to support their continued engagement.
  • Embracing technology for safer emergency response

Communication is vital in emergencies; it provides the ability to convey real-time information quickly and accurately, which can mean the difference between life and death. Cloud-based platforms can be used to share data instantaneously, while mobile apps can allow real-time location tracking and alerts, ensuring that the right resources are dispatched without delay.

  • Addressing burnout with adequate rest periods

Burnout is a real concern in emergency services, and employers can play a key role in addressing this. By managing workloads effectively and ensuring that workers have adequate rest between shifts, employers can help reduce fatigue and prevent accidents.

  • Regularising audits and worker feedback

Consistent safety audits and open feedback channels empower workers to voice concerns and improve safety standards. Involving employees in this process promotes a proactive safety culture, ensuring they remain protected and prepared to face the challenges.

Emergency workers are vital to Australia's resilience, serving as the critical foundation for public safety and emergency response during times of crisis. By creating a supportive environment and implementing effective safety measures, employers can help ensure that those who dedicate their lives to helping others receive the protection and care they deserve.

 

[1] Holmes, Dan. "Emergency Services Face Workforce Challenges," The Mandarin, 31 Jan 2024.

[2] "National Mental Health and Wellbeing Study of Police and Emergency Services," Beyond Blue, accessed 02 Oct 2024. PDF File.

[3] Marvin, Graham, et al. "Occupation-Induced Fatigue and Impacts on Emergency First Responders: A Systematic Review," National Library of Medicine, 12 Nov 2023.