New report: Millions of American workers killed, injured every year

May 31, 2013 (Press-News.org) New report: Millions of American workers killed, injured every year

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When a sudden tragedy strikes, the news media are quick to fill the airwaves with instant coverage. From acts of terrorism to natural disasters, any event that costs even a few innocent lives grabs headlines for days. Yet, every single day, dozens of American workers are killed either on the job or from occupational disease, and the plight of them and their families goes largely unsung.

For those impacted by a worker injury or death, the hardship is every bit as real as it is for people impacted by any other tragedy. According to a new report, the number of individuals and families affected by workplace injury remains stunningly high.

As many as 150 workers killed every day

In April of 2013, the AFL-CIO released its annual report on workplace injuries, illnesses and deaths, entitled "Death on the Job: The Toll of Neglect." The report is meant to detail the state of worker safety in America based on the latest available statistics.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 4,693 on-the-job fatalities among all American workers in 2011. However, even this alarming number -- an average of 13 worker deaths every day of the week -- is only a small glimpse into the heavy toll taken by workplace accidents and occupational illnesses. An additional 50,000 workers were estimated to have lost their lives to occupational illness in 2011, bringing the daily worker death toll to 150.

While a worker fatality is the most devastating result of a dangerous workplace incident, nonfatal injuries also have a substantial impact when they put an employee out of work and/or cause lasting damage. The AFL-CIO report cited figures indicating that more than 3.8 million workplace injuries and occupational diseases were reported in 2011 -- given the generally accepted hypothesis that worker injuries are drastically underreported, a figure that is likely understated. Researchers put the true number of work-related injuries or illnesses between 7.6 million and 11.4 million, more than double the number that are officially reported.

The facts put forth in the new AFL-CIO report are not only alarming because of the sheer numbers; they also show that achievement in implementing worker safety initiatives has stagnated. While the number of annual worker deaths has generally been on a downward trend for decades, over the last three years, the total has hit a plateau.

Were you or was someone you love injured at work? Speak with an attorney

Many occupations put workers at risk on a daily basis, and even more jobs pose a threat of long term health consequences due to exposure to hazardous substances or activities. A workplace injury, illness or death can be an incredibly challenging obstacle to face; nonetheless, it is a challenge that millions of American families and individuals must take on every year.

If you have been harmed due to job activities, or if a family member has been killed, there are financial resources available to help you through your time of need in the form of workers' compensation. Contact a workers' compensation attorney today to learn more about the benefits to which you may be entitled, and to begin building your case.