The pandemic era is providing employers with a golden opportunity to address the significant stress risks posed by open-plan office noises, Australian researchers say.
The vast majority of Australian workers are worried about the risk of COVID-19 infection as their workplaces reopen, demonstrating the need for clear communication on infection control from their employers, and other measures to allay their fears, a study has found.
Preventing psychological harm and facilitating return-to-work processes are key components of an effective, integrated "safe system of work", according to a new definition proposed by two Australian safety experts.
A major study of agricultural workers has provided important safety lessons to all industries, identifying three work postures that significantly contribute to lower back pain.
A study following nearly 10,000 workers for a quarter of a century has found low mental simulation in a job can have serious long-term impacts on workers' cognitive function, with links to the onset of dementia.
With insufficient sleep emerging as a major risk factor for cardiometabolic disease, and many senior managers working excessive hours, employers have been urged to ensure workplace health programs address work demands and psychological factors that prevent workers from sleeping enough.
With noise-induced hearing loss remaining one of the most prevalent occupational diseases, despite regulatory thresholds, researchers have examined the benefits of personal in-ear monitors, and found they appear to improve the use of PPE and drive the implementation of engineering controls.
Workers who have experienced cancer can suffer long-term impacts that affect their ability to work safely. They require work environments that encourage them to be open about their challenges and ask for support, researchers say.
Leading Australian WHS experts have found, from two studies, that promoting work engagement to boost productivity can create "workaholics" at high risk of depression where the workplace is not psychologically safe.
Promoting healthy diets among workers can have a positive impact on safety performance, according to researchers, who found truck drivers who eat more vegetables and coarse grains are less likely to exhibit dangerous driving.
