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Every workshop, whether in mining, construction or manufacturing, comes with its own set of risks. From slips to heavy lifting injuries, small mistakes can lead to serious accidents.
Understanding the most common safety issues and how to manage them is key to keeping your team safe and productive.

1. Slips, Trips and Falls

One of the leading causes of workplace injuries in Australia is simple: losing your footing.
Wet floors, cluttered work areas or uneven surfaces are common culprits. In workshops, spills from oil, water or chemicals add to the risk.

How to prevent it:
Keep walkways and work zones clear at all times
Use spill kits and absorbents to clean up liquids quickly
Install anti-slip mats and ensure all floor markings are visible
Inspect flooring regularly for wear and tear

2. Manual Handling and Ergonomic Issues

Incorrect lifting or repetitive strain can cause long-term injuries to the back, shoulders and wrists. These incidents are often preventable with proper technique and planning.

How to prevent it:
Use mechanical aids like trolleys or lifting devices wherever possible
Train staff in correct lifting methods
Rotate repetitive tasks to reduce fatigue
Encourage early reporting of discomfort or strain

3. Hazards from Machinery and Equipment

Machinery-related incidents can be some of the most serious in any workshop. Moving parts, pinch points or damaged tools can cause crushing, entanglement or cuts.

How to prevent it:
Conduct regular machinery inspections and maintenance
Always use guarding and lockout/tagout procedures
Ensure staff wear appropriate PPE (personal protective equipment)
Provide clear training before operating any machinery

4. Electrical Hazards

Faulty wiring, overloaded circuits and damaged cords can all cause electric shocks or fires.
Workshops often have high electrical demand, making this risk even more significant.

How to prevent it:
Schedule routine electrical testing and tagging
Replace damaged cords or tools immediately
Keep electrical panels clear and labelled
Avoid using power boards as permanent solutions

5. Exposure to Hazardous Substances

Workshops commonly use oils, solvents, fuels and cleaning chemicals – all of which pose risks if handled incorrectly. Exposure can lead to burns, respiratory issues or skin irritation.

How to prevent it:
Store chemicals in clearly labelled, bunded areas
Use spill containment equipment to prevent leaks
Train staff on safe chemical handling and PPE use
Review Safety Data Sheets (SDS) regularly

Building a Safer Workshop Starts with Awareness

Every workplace is different, but the goal remains the same — everyone goes home safe. By addressing these common hazards and investing in reliable safety products such as bunds, spill kits, cribbing blocks and PPE, workshops can prevent incidents before they happen.

At Accumax, we help Australian industries build safer worksites through smart, sustainable solutions that support safety from the ground up.