WorkCover Queensland emphasizes the importance of work health and wellbeing, which aims to enhance work processes for the benefit of workers' health and mitigate risks of chronic diseases in the workplace. The nature of one's work can significantly influence the likelihood of developing injuries or illnesses, with risk factors including physical inactivity, sedentary work, unhealthy eating habits, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, obesity, and poor mental health.

Research indicates that the design of work can impact both the physical and psychological health of the workforce, as well as overall safety and wellbeing outcomes. Workers affected by physical or mental health conditions often experience higher rates of injury, illness, absenteeism, and presentism. Those exposed to hazardous working conditions, physically demanding tasks, high stress levels, and long working hours are more prone to adopting unhealthy behaviors such as smoking, excessive alcohol intake, and insufficient physical activity and nutrition. These behaviors can contribute to the development of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, and mental health conditions.

Given the expected significant increase in chronic disease rates, which will impact both workers and workplace productivity, initiatives targeting work health and wellbeing are crucial. The Business Council of Australia estimates that eliminating chronic diseases could increase workforce productivity by 10%, potentially saving $2.3 billion through the reduction of modifiable chronic disease risk factors and subsequent improvements in workforce participation and productivity.

Before implementing any work health and wellbeing initiatives, WorkCover Queensland advises reviewing and considering various factors such as work organization (including systems, policies, procedures, and work characteristics), physical environment (including equipment and structures), and worker capacities and behaviors (both physical and mental).

Use the Work health and wellbeing toolkit (PDF, 1.77 MB)