A recent study by The Lancet Oncology highlights concerns around the standard of diagnosis and treatment being offered in New Zealand compared to similar countries. But WorkSafe New Zealand says that a greater focus needs to be placed on prevention, and protecting workers’ health from exposures linked to cancer made a priority.
WorkSafe General Manager Strategy and Performance Jude Urlich says a worker is 15 times more likely to die from a work-related disease than from a workplace accident.
There are an estimated 5,000-6,000 hospitalisations each year due to work-related ill health.
By law, businesses must manage both the health and safety risks caused by their work. That includes managing risks to mental health as well as physical health and safety.