NEW ZEALAND ESTIMATES OF THE SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC COST OF WORK-RELATED INJURIES. (7th October 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Poland, M; O'Dea, D; Wren, J
• Is Part Of: Injury prevention. Volume 18(2012)Supplement 1
• Page Start: A36
• Page End: A36
• Publication Date: 2012-10-07
• Subjects: Children's accidents -- Prevention -- Periodicals; Accidents -- Prevention -- Periodicals; 617.1
• DOI: 10.1136/injuryprev-2012-040580c.43
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1353-8047

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Work-related fatal and serious non-fatal injury rates in New Zealand are static and a number of prevention initiatives are being developed. The Department of Labour's State of Workplace Health and Safety 2011 report presents three different estimates of the cost of work-related injury ranging from $1.35 billion to $20.9 billion. A consistent estimate is required. Aims/Objectives/Purpose: To develop an agreed estimate of the cost of work-related injury that can be applied consistently. Method: The New Zealand Injury Prevention Strategy (NZIPS) estimate of the total social and economic cost of injury provides a conservative estimate of work-related injury that can be compared over time. Furthermore it allows the costs of work-related injury to be placed within the context of total costs from injury. Results/Outcome: The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment now has an estimate of the cost of work-related injury based on an agreed methodology. The total cost is NZ$1.0 billion. This comprises of $236 million of treatment and rehabilitation costs, $462 million of lost economic contribution and $349 million of human costs. Work-related injury makes up 10% of the total costs of injury. Significance/Contribution to the Field: The NZIPS estimate will be used in the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment's injury prevention work and offers the opportunity to improve consistency across government with regard to injury prevention investments.