New Zealand reported a total of 226,600 work-related injury claims in 2023, an increase of 1,200 claims from the previous year, according to the latest data from Statistics New Zealand. Despite the rise in the number of claims, the incidence rate for work-related injuries fell to 86 claims per 1,000 full-time equivalent employees, marking the lowest rate recorded since the series began in 2002.

The data reveals that while more employees are filing claims, the overall rate of injuries relative to the workforce is decreasing. This trend suggests that New Zealand’s efforts to improve workplace safety are having a positive impact, even as the number of claims rises.

The statistics highlight that the manufacturing, agriculture, forestry, fishing, and construction industries reported the highest incidence rates of work-related injury claims in 2023. Trade workers, in particular, accounted for the largest number of claims by occupation, with a staggering 39,000 claims filed. This reflects the high-risk nature of trades work, which often involves physical labour and exposure to hazardous environments.

Interestingly, the total number of fatal work-related injury claims decreased significantly in 2023, with only 54 reported, down from 81 in 2022. This decline marks the lowest number of fatal claims in a single year since 2002, demonstrating a critical improvement in workplace safety measures.

Among the various types of injuries, soft-tissue injuries—including ligament, tendon, and muscle injuries—were the most prevalent, representing 65 per cent of all claims in 2023. This statistic remained consistent with 2022, indicating that soft-tissue injuries continue to be a significant concern across various sectors.

The findings have raised discussions around the effectiveness of workplace safety initiatives and the need for continuous improvement. Industry leaders and safety advocates have pointed out that while the decline in fatal injuries is commendable, the rise in overall claims signals that there is still work to be done in ensuring a safe work environment for all New Zealanders.

Organizations across the country are encouraged to reassess their health and safety practices, focusing on proactive measures to prevent injuries before they occur. Implementing comprehensive training programs, enhancing workplace ergonomics, and fostering a culture of safety are crucial steps that can help mitigate the risk of injuries.

The government has also emphasized the importance of collaboration between employers, employees, and health and safety organizations to address the ongoing challenges related to workplace injuries. By sharing best practices and learning from incidents, the goal is to create a safer working environment that reduces the number of claims while maintaining a vigilant approach to employee well-being.

As New Zealand moves forward, stakeholders are hopeful that the combination of declining fatal injury rates and an overall commitment to improving workplace safety will lead to a safer work environment, reducing the number of claims while enhancing the quality of life for workers across the nation. The data from 2023 serves as both a warning and a call to action for all industries to prioritize safety and health in the workplace.