Human Resources, Labour and Employment
April 7, 2009

The following statement was issued by the Honourable Susan Sullivan, Minister of Human Resources, Labour and Employment. It was also read in the House of Assembly:

Workplace Injuries Declined in 2008

I rise in this Honourable House today to deliver some very good news provided to me this morning by the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission. It is that in 2008, workplace injuries continued to decline in Newfoundland and Labrador by seven per cent.

This is a remarkable achievement, especially when you consider that this has occurred over a time when employment in Newfoundland and Labrador grew by more than 22,000 workers.

Since 2000 on-the-job injuries have decreased in Newfoundland and Labrador by an incredible 38 per cent. This great improvement is the result of sustained efforts by employers, unions and workers to make workplaces safer throughout the province.

While this is excellent news, unfortunately, serious workplace injuries and fatalities still occur. Safety must continue to be a number one priority in our workplaces. Work-related injuries and illnesses can and must be prevented.

Preventing injuries in our workplaces is everyone�s responsibility. The Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission continues to foster a commitment to workplace health and safety by:
  • Promoting public awareness of workplace health and safety issues;
  • Educating employers, workers and others about workplace health and safety;
  • Providing services to health and safety committees and representatives;
  • Taking the lead in health and safety certification by setting standards under the Occupational Health and Safety Act;
  • Promoting funding for workplace health and safety research; and,
  • Partnering with industry associations, government departments, unions and health and safety coalitions across the province to reduce workplace injuries and diseases.
    •

    Again, I would like to applaud the continued efforts that have resulted in the decrease in workplace injuries announced today. Let�s all work together to ensure this positive trend continues in 2009.

    2009 04 07                                                1:40 p.m.
     

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