Attention! Are you aware of the hidden costs of needlestick injuries?
22.04.2006

Please read on for more information on these hidden costs and how you can eliminate risks in the workplace :

Australian Risk Minimisation can reduce or eliminate risks in your workplace. Although there are countless risks, one example and one we specialise in, is searching for hazards and syringe disposal. Used syringes are now commonplace in our society. Vehicles that have been previously stolen may contain items such as syringes, chemicals, weapons or traps. Employees such as insurance assessors, tow truck drivers and mechanics are at real risk of injury from these hazards. Vacated rental properties, parks, school or church halls, the list goes on.

Needlestick or skin penetrating injuries from a used syringe are exceptionally dangerous to health and your finances.

• According to the American Hospital Association, one case of serious infection by blood borne pathogens can soon add up to $1 million or more in expenditures for testing follow-up, lost time and disability payments.
• The cost of follow-up for a high-risk exposure is almost $3,000 per needlestick injury even when no infection occurs.
• The real cost of needlestick injuries becomes significantly higher when the medical costs are considered for infected workers. Cases involving infected workers will involve higher worker's compensation costs, long-term medical expenses and liability exposure, and legal costs and court settlements that could cost multi-million dollars.