Which industry is the highest claimant of workcover?

Health care & social assistance is the industry with the highest number of WorkCover claims, especially lost-time claims. It consistently leads all sectors in workplace injury statistics.

Key Takeaways

• Health care & social assistance has the most WorkCover claims.

• Construction and mining follow closely behind.

• Physically demanding or high-risk industries report more claims.

• Claim severity depends on job type and injury duration.

• Preventive safety programs reduce claim frequency and cost.

Smart Summary

Health care & social assistance tops WorkCover claim lists each year. Frequent lifting, exposure to illness, and emotional strain make it the most affected industry. Construction, mining, and manufacturing also have high claim rates due to physical risk and machinery exposure.

In-Depth: Which Industry Claims the Most and Why

The Leading Industry: Health Care & Social Assistance

Health care workers experience a combination of physical, biological, and psychological risks. Lifting patients, long shifts, and emotional fatigue create a perfect storm for injuries and stress-related conditions.

Top reasons for high claim volume:

1. Repetitive strain injuries from lifting or moving patients.

2. Exposure to infections and illnesses.

3. High stress and emotional burnout leading to mental health claims.

4. Fatigue and long working hours increasing accident risk.

Other Sectors with High Claim Numbers

• Construction – Falls, equipment accidents, and heavy lifting remain leading causes of injury.

• Mining – Harsh environments and heavy machinery increase both claim frequency and severity.

• Manufacturing – Repetitive work, noise exposure, and contact with machinery contribute to ongoing claims.

• Transport & Warehousing – Vehicle operation and manual handling injuries are common.

Claim Severity and Duration

Not all claims are equal. Some industries have numerous minor injuries, while others have fewer but more severe cases. Health care, construction, and mining often see longer recovery times because their injuries involve chronic strain or trauma.

The duration and cost of claims often depend on:

• Injury type (acute vs. repetitive strain)

• Worker age and recovery ability

• Workplace rehabilitation support

• Access to early treatment and modified duties

FAQs

1. What is a lost-time claim?
A claim where an employee cannot return to work beyond the day of injury, requiring compensation for missed income.

2. Why does health care lead in WorkCover claims?
Because it involves physical effort, emotional labor, and constant exposure to hazards — all of which increase risk.

3. Which industries follow health care in claim numbers?
Construction, mining, and manufacturing regularly appear in the top claim categories.

4. How can employers reduce WorkCover claims?
By implementing strong safety training, proper lifting techniques, mental health support, and ergonomic assessments.

5. Do high claims increase insurance costs?
Yes. A history of frequent or severe claims raises premiums and risk classification. Preventive programs can help lower them.

Summary 

Health care & social assistance leads in WorkCover claims due to physical strain, infection exposure, and stress. Construction, mining, and manufacturing follow, reflecting high-risk working conditions and manual labor demands.

Final Thoughts

The data clearly shows that industries with high physical and psychological demands have the highest claim rates. Health care workers, in particular, face a unique mix of risks that make injury prevention vital.

Employers who invest in safety culture, training, and wellness programs not only protect employees but also lower long-term costs and claim frequency.

Start Protecting Your Business Today

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