QUEENSLAND mining chiefs have been told to lift safety standards after a recent report revealed shocking numbers of workplace injuries for 2008.
A report released on 28 December 2008 found 413 workers received a disabling injury in 2008, which saw them unable to perform their regular job.
While the figures suggest a general improvement in mining safety, DME Minister, Geoff Wilson, says mining chiefs must do more to lift standards, particularly those operating heavy machinery.
"Industry needs to redouble its efforts in making mines safer for workers who handle heavy machinery because nothing is more important than the safety and health of the men and women who work in Queensland's mines," he said.
Queensland Resources Council (QRC) chief executive, Michael Roche, says improvements in lost-time injury rates, injury severity and total injuries deserves congratulation.
"However, there is no such thing as an acceptable level of death or injury, and that's why Queensland's mining industry will maintain its highest focus on the health and safety of its employees,” he said
According to the report, workers compensation for 2008 cost the coal mining, metalliferous and quarry sectors a combined $11.4m.
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