More than 150 body parts were amputated during workplace injuries in 2022, according to WorkSafe.
WorkSafe accepted 137 claims for workplace amputation injuries, including at least 127 fingers or thumbs being amputated.
Digits caught or crushed in machinery or severed while using a saw accounted for about one third of all amputation claims.
Manufacturing was the most dangerous industry for amputations, accounting for 45 per cent of all claims, while construction made up 15 per cent.
Labourers were most at risk, with 51 accepted claims in 2022, followed by tradespeople (37) and production and transport workers (31).
WorkSafe health and safety executive director Narelle Beer employers needed to do more to ensure workers were kept safe from the risk of traumatic injuries.
“The staggering number of workers who have lost limbs and digits from preventable incidents is simply unacceptable,” she said.
“No one should suffer such horrific, life-changing injuries at work.
“Employers need to make sure safety guards are fixed to machines at all times, and that staff are appropriately trained and supervised to undertake all tasks safely.”
In 2022, fines and court costs totalling $256,094 were imposed by the courts against companies in eight WorkSafe prosecutions after workers sustained amputations.
Charges against nine other Victorian employers for alleged breaches of the Occupational Health and Safety Act that resulted in amputation injuries remain before the courts and 24 matters involving amputations are currently being investigated by WorkSafe.
