Figures are of little comfort

WHILE the fall in the number of work-related fatal accidents in 2002 is to be welcomed, the death toll of fifty seven people, including six children, provides a graphic illustration of the need for heightened safety in the work place.

The only bright note in an otherwise bleak scenario is that the number of agriculture fatalities and the number of child deaths almost halved. Overall, the death toll was seven less than last year.

But this small decrease in fatalities gives no cause for complacency. The fact remains that the traditionally high risk sectors of construction and agriculture continue to claim the majority of lives.