A QUT study has found that despite tighter child safety laws, one in four parents is still not restraining children properly in cars.

A range of other safety issues have been raised at a national injury prevention conference in Brisbane this week.

Jessica Sier reports.

TRANSCRIPT

The issue of child safety was a major focus of the Injury Prevention conference.

Last year the Queensland government brought in new laws to force parents to better restrain their children when travelling in cars.

Dr Alexia Lennon, Head of Accident Research QUT: “Now parents have to keep their children in a dedicated child restraint until the child’s at least seven years old whereas previously they could use a seatbelt once the child had turned one year old.”

But a QUT study has found that despite the new laws, up to one in four parents are still not restraining children safely in vehicles.

Dr Alexia Lennon, Head of Accident Research QUT: “Parents need to be familiar with what the restraints types are and which ones are most suitable for their child.”

The conference will also discuss general safety issues to do with cars, alcohol and substance abuse as well as workplace health and safety.

The main things to come out of this week’s conference are to raise child safety awareness and provide an evironment for parents and guardians to learn about what services are available.

The conference also provides an opportunity for members of the health and safety community to meet and discuss new ideas.

Jessica Sier, QUT News.