The Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) has introduced a crush protection device (CPD) subsidy for rural workplaces.
Last week, a new policy clarification from WorkSafe was issued strongly recommending that a CPD is installed on all quad bikes used for work. In collaboration with WorkSafe, ACC designed a CPD subsidy, which will help rural business buy CPDs for their quad bikes.
According to ACC, any purchase of the two WorkSafe recommended CPDs from June 12 will be eligible for the subsidy. However, it will not be fully operational until the end of July, so those who purchase the CPD now may need to wait until this time for reimbursement. Self-employed and small to medium businesses in targeted sub-sectors at the highest injury rate, including beef, sheep and dairy farming are eligible for a a workplace injury prevention subsidy.
ACC offers $180 per CPD with a maximum of two CPD purchases per business (including self-employed). ACC said this is approximately a 15-30% cost discount, depending on what product is chosen. The subsidy will be available for 12 months, but the state insurer noted it will review uptake after six months.
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ACC mentioned 2018 data, which shows an estimated 38,000 businesses (including self-employed) in the targeted sub-sectors. It estimates that this group accounts for 70% of quad bike-related claim costs. Every year, ACC receives over 1,000 claims for work-related quad bikes accidents, costing $12 million.
