Retail Trade
Industry Module

The retail trade industry where many young people get their first job, often balancing part-time or casual work with school or study.

These jobs are a great way for young workers to gain experience, earn some pocket money, and build skills that can lead to long-term work in the industry

In Western Australia, retail is one of the top employers of 15–19-year-olds.

19.8%

Be Aware

of work injuries in WA's retail trade industry involve young workers.

That's nearly 1 in 5.
Be smart. Be the difference.

Module structure

  • 2 parts - 9 Sections

    Each with a quiz, and wrapping up with a fun ‘Spot the Hazard’ simulation to put your skills to the test.

  • Part 1: 19 to 23 Minutes

    Estimated learning time

    Part 2: 15 to 19 Minutes

    Estimated learning time

100% pass required, but don’t worry, you get unlimited attempts.

Working in the retail sector can be dangerous


Young workers are often new to the job and may not yet feel confident speaking up or recognising when something isn’t safe.

That’s why understanding your role and learning how to work safely is so important.

Here are some of the roles young people take on in retail:

  • Sales Assistant

    Helping customers, restocking shelves, and keeping the store tidy

  • Checkout Operator

    Scanning items, handling payments, and providing receipts.

  • Stock Filler

    Unpacking products, shelving items, and checking prices and labels

  • Warehouse Storeperson

    Receiving deliveries, organising stock, and moving goods

  • Store Cleaner

    Cleaning floors, shelves, and shared spaces to maintain safety.

  • Online Order Packer

    picking and packing online orders for delivery or pickup.

Statistics

Top incidents causing injuries

These are the top 10 types of incidents causing injuries to young workers in the retail trade industry, based on a five-year average.

Other health and safety hazards you should know

  • Fatigue

  • Electrical safety

  • Violence and aggression

Source

WorkCover WA claims data (2019–20 to 2023–24p), analysed by WorkSafe WA, 2025.

Notes

  • Calculations are based on a five-year total from 2019-20 to 2023-24p.
  • Percentages are based on all incident types; totals may not sum to 100% due to rounding or overlapping categories.
  • Injuries are measured by the number of LTI/Ds (lost time injuries/diseases), defined as one or more days/shifts lost.
  • The SmartMove retail trade industry is classified under ANZSIC 2006 – Division G.

Build your safety smarts?

Start SmartMove to learn how to work safety, spot hazards, and build confidence on the job in the retail trade industry.

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