Workplace Fatalities Increased in 2010, Federal Report Shows
In 2010, falls were the second highest cause of workplace fatalities in New York City. Overall workplace deaths have increased across the nation bringing the need to re-evaluate workplace safety.
September 06, 2012
Workplace Fatalities Increased in 2010, Federal Report ShowsIn 2010, the number of workplace fatalities in the United States rose 3.3 percent from 2009's numbers, to a total of 4,690 worker deaths. While several large workplace disasters contributed to the increase, 4,551 workers not involved in these tragedies were killed on the job.
What Were Common Causes of Workplace Fatalities in 2010?
Transportation accidents were the number one cause of workplace fatalities in 2010, causing 1,857 deaths nationwide and increasing by 100 from 2009. The second most common cause of workplace fatalities in 2010 were assaults or violent acts in the workplace, accounting for 1,044 fatalities.
In addition, toxic chemical inhalation deaths doubled between 2009 and 2010, as did deaths from fire. There were six fatalities from lack of oxygen in 2010, compared to zero in 2009. Likewise, there were six deaths from toxic sewer gas in 2010, but none in 2009.
Despite the increase in fatalities across all industries, fatal construction accidents decreased between 2009 and 2010. Unfortunately, the reduction was not due to an improvement in workplace conditions. Experts believe high unemployment numbers rather than improved health and safety conditions account for the decline in construction worker deaths.
How Do These Rates Compare to New York City?
In New York City, 68 workers died as a result of workplace injuries, though the most common causes differed from national statistics. The most common causes of workplace fatalities in New York City were assaults and other violent acts, accounting for 29 workplace fatalities that year.
Falls were the second most common cause of workplace fatalities, causing 16 deaths in 2010. Most fatal falls are from scaffolding, ladder or roofing accidents.
Other common causes of workplace deaths in New York City include exposure to harmful environments or substances, transportation incidents, contact with a workplace object or piece of equipment and fires and explosions.
The increase in workplace fatalities highlights the importance of adequate health and safety regulations, protocol and training in the workplace. Until improvements are made, workers will continue to be seriously or fatally injured. If you have lost a loved one in a workplace incident, please contact a personal injury lawyer who can help you understand your legal options.
Article provided by Law Offices Rosenberg, Minc, Falkoff & Wolff, L.L.P.
Visit us at www.nycaccident.com