Work-related injuries and illnesses carry a significant economic burden, impacting businesses, workers, and the broader economy. According to a 2022 study by Safe Work Australia and Deloitte, from 2008 to 2018, Australia recorded an average of 623,663 work-related injuries and illnesses annually, amounting to 6.9 million incidents over the decade. The total financial impact was staggering—$49.5 billion in employer costs, $3.4 billion in healthcare expenses, and the loss of 2.2 million full-time equivalent jobs due to productivity declines.
Without these injuries and illnesses, Australia’s GDP could have been $28.6 billion higher each year, 185,500 additional jobs could have been created annually, and the government could have collected an extra $9.4 billion in tax revenue by 2018. These figures highlight the urgent need for proactive workplace health measures.
Industries with the highest number of claims include Healthcare, Manufacturing, Construction, Transport, Postal & Warehousing, Public Administration & Safety, and Retail Trade, while occupations most affected are labourers, machinery operators and drivers, technicians and trade workers, community and personal service workers, professionals, and sales workers.
Given the widespread impact of workplace injuries, businesses must take proactive steps to protect their workforce. One of the most effective ways to do this is through pre-employment medical assessments and ongoing health monitoring. These assessments help ensure candidates are physically and mentally fit for the demands of their roles, reducing injury risks, lowering compensation claims, and fostering a healthier work environment.
So, what is a pre-employment medical?
A pre-employment medical assessment is a structured evaluation that determines whether a candidate is medically fit for a particular role. These assessments may include:
- General physical examinations
- Vision and hearing tests
- Drug and alcohol screening
- Musculoskeletal and strength assessments
The primary goal is risk management—ensuring employees can perform their jobs safely and effectively. These assessments help identify pre-existing conditions that could impact workplace safety, allowing employers to make informed hiring decisions and implement reasonable adjustments where necessary.
While pre-employment medicals primarily benefit employers by reducing workplace injuries and associated costs, they also support prospective employees by identifying health concerns early, leading to better long-term health outcomes.
Investing in workplace health isn’t just about compliance—it’s about building a safer, more productive workforce.
The four hacks to a healthier workforce:
We’ve put together an exclusive eBook that reveals four powerful strategies to help businesses create a safer, healthier, and more productive workforce. From preventing workplace injuries to reducing downtime and workers’ compensation costs, these practical insights can make a real difference in your organisation.
Inside the e-book you’ll be able to find out more about these 4 essential workforce hacks:
How to Prevent Workplace Accidents & Injuries
Ensuring Compliance with Legal & Regulatory Requirements
Reduce Insurance Premiums & Workers Compensation Claims
Reduce Downtime Due to Injury or Absenteeism
Each section will help you take actionable steps toward a healthier workforce. Whether you’re looking to mitigate risks, cut costs, or improve employee wellbeing, this guide will give you the tools to make a lasting impact.
Your Partner in Building a Safer, Healthier Workforce
At WHA, we provide comprehensive solutions to enhance employee wellbeing and safety through a range of essential services. Our pre-employment medicals ensure that candidates are physically and mentally fit for their roles, promoting a safe and effective workforce.
We conduct annual health checks to help identify potential health issues early, allowing for timely interventions and reducing the risk of serious conditions. Additionally, we offer specialised services tailored to various industries, such as fitness to drive assessments, industry-specific medicals, and drug & alcohol screening, all aimed at maintaining a safe work environment. Our hearing tests and health & wellness programs further contribute to employee health, while our vaccinations help prevent the spread of infectious diseases in the workplace.
By providing these targeted health assessments and proactive initiatives, we address critical workforce health challenges, fostering a safer and healthier work environment.
Download your free e-book now!
Assessing the physical and mental fitness of potential employees for specific job roles not only helps prevent workplace accidents and injuries but also ensures compliance with industry regulations and boosts overall productivity.
By investing in pre-employment medicals, businesses showcase their commitment to employee health and safety, fostering a more secure and efficient workplace environment.