SafeWork Australia Key WHS Statistics Report (2025) states that Construction work is in the top 6 (combined) industries nationally that contribute to 80% of work-related traumatic injury fatalities and 61% of serious workers compensation claims. Although, by international standards, Australia has high WHS standards and by default lower fatality and injury rates. Interestingly, workers under 25 years of age have the lowest fatality rate and workers 45 years and older account for over half of the fatalities recorded.
https://www.nscafoundation.org.au/news-item/13092/nsw-construction-site-safety-guide-202324
That said, young and inexperienced workers in the Australian construction industry face a potentially higher risk of workplace injury and illness compared with experienced workers. Construction is already considered one of the most hazardous industries due to the presence of heavy machinery, work at heights, electrical systems, hazardous materials, and constantly changing worksites. When workers are young or new to the industry, these risks increase because of limited experience, inadequate training and/or supervision, and a lack of experience in identifying hazards and/or confidence in reporting unsafe work practices.
To the young/inexperienced worker a construction site is a hazardous work environment that they have not yet developed a sense of what can potentially harm them. I have been working in the WHS field for 20+ years. I have inducted young workers on-site and had them return to me within the first day with minor (and not so minor) cuts or crush type injuries from either the tools they are using or the material they have been handling. Minor eye injuries are a common injury because of power tool use or material handling.
Falls from heights are a serious hazard to the young/inexperienced worker. Young workers may be required to access scaffolding, ladders, roofs, and open penetrations without fully understanding the dangers involved. SafeWork NSW reported a serious incident where a 16-year-old labourer fell more than three metres through an uncovered floor penetration on a construction site, highlighting the importance of supervision and proper site controls.
Manual handling injuries are also common among young workers. Construction tasks frequently involve lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling heavy materials such as timber, cement bags, and equipment. Young workers may lack the physical conditioning or safe lifting knowledge required to complete these tasks safely, leading to strains, sprains, and long-term musculoskeletal injuries. WorkSafe Victoria identifies lifting and handling materials as one of the leading causes of injuries among young construction workers.
Another major hazard is being struck by moving or falling objects. Construction sites contain moving vehicles, cranes, tools, and suspended loads that can cause serious injuries or fatalities. Statistics from SafeWork SA show that many injuries among young workers occur when they are hit by tools, machinery, or falling materials. Inexperienced workers may not fully understand exclusion zones, traffic management systems, or safe work procedures.
Exposure to hazardous substances is also a significant concern. Construction workers may encounter silica dust, asbestos, chemicals, paints, and fumes. Young workers may not fully understand the long-term health impacts of inhaling hazardous dusts or failing to use personal protective equipment correctly. Silica exposure has become a major issue in Australia because it can lead to serious lung diseases such as silicosis.
Psychosocial hazards further increase the risks faced by young workers. Many young employees are eager to impress supervisors and may accept unsafe tasks without questioning instructions. They can also experience bullying, hazing (initiation processes), fatigue, and pressure to work quickly. Safe Work Australia notes that young workers are often reluctant to report hazards or ask questions due to fear of losing their job or appearing inexperienced.
Inadequate supervision and insufficient training are key contributing factors to many incidents involving inexperienced workers. Apprentices and trainees may be exposed to high-risk tasks before they are competent to perform them safely. Reports from Australian regulators continue to show that poor supervision, unsafe workplace culture, and lack of formal safety procedures contribute to preventable injuries in the construction industry.
In conclusion, we are passing the baton on to the future construction workforce of Australia. The workplace skills and culture we nurture with young and inexperienced workers set them up for good or bad outcomes. Without sounding to dramatic, it can mean the difference between life and death, a healthy and prosperous life or a life with ill-health and financial hardship. Employers must provide proper induction, supervision, training, and safe work systems to protect young workers and reduce workplace injuries and fatalities in the construction industry.
