New standards for circular saws and wedge splitters for firewood

Following the publication of a weather service warning of high temperatures forecast for 12 and 13 June 2024, the Ministry of Labour and Social Security issued a circular to employers on 11 June on “Emergency measures to combat heat stress among workers in the private sector” for employers.

A colleague falls off a ladder. A nurse is stopped and threatened. A train driver hits a cyclist crossing the tracks at high speed. These incidents can cause trauma and feelings of fear, powerlessness and guilt. They need to be reported in order to provide support for those affected.

According to data published by the Austrian Social insurance for occupational injuries (AUVA) in mid-June, 145,748 claims were registered last year, broken down as follows 29,866 accidents (at work and and students), 13,062 commuting accidents and 2,820 cases of occupational diseases. While the number of accidents (at work and on the way to work) has increased, the number of occupational diseases has decreased compared to 2022.