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© Master Builders KwaZulu-Natal 2017

Occupational Health and Safety 12 Month Progressive Statistics Report

 
 
         
   
 

Master Builders KwaZulu-Natal Occupational Health and Safety
12 Month Progressive Statistics Report

Master Builders KwaZulu-Natal encourages its members to strive to achieve zero harm to employees by implementing various Health and Safety interventions. Master Builders KwaZulu-Natal regularly fields enquiries regarding the acceptable Disabling Injury Frequency Rate (DIFR) for the Construction Industry in KZN.

In order to compile DIFR statistics, the Association gathered information from its members and used an international formula to calculate it: No. of DIs x 200 000 divided by total manhours worked, this gives a % frequency rate.

These measurements are ideal for monitoring and identifying trends as well as for comparison against industry norms. As with all statistical calculations, in order for it to add value, we need to clearly define what is being measured and ensure we continuously assess it according to these parameters.

Incident rates are known as lagging indicators because they describe past history. They tend to be most useful when compared over several periods so that trends can be identified. Most medium-sized or larger companies can benefit from computing these rates monthly and tracking the trends. If rates are climbing, an investigation should be conducted to determine the reason for the climb. If rates are declining, it is either a sign that workers are following safe practices and that the safety plan is working, or that people have stopped reporting incidences.

Disabling Injury Frequency Rates provide a good indication as to where problems are and consequently, is the most important lagging indicator to monitor. By monitoring, investigating and reporting on DIFR, the focus of leading indicators can be adjusted, thereby reducing incidence.

The following aspects are critical to ensuring that statistics add value to a Health and Safety programme:

  • Understanding the calculation and its various components.
  • Clearly identifying and understanding the various injury/illness classifications.
  • Correctly classifying according to these definitions.
  • Always remember that incidence rates measure failure and should never be used as the only Health and Safety measurement tool. Trends identified by these rates will, however, afford valuable historical data which allows focus on underperforming areas of the safety program.
  • Program measurement should be by means of leading indicators and should not be limited to recorded incidents.

These statistics will be made available on a bi-annual basis.

Neil Enslin | Occupational Health and Safety Manager