Preliminary data from a Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) report indicates that on-the-job fatalities decreased from 2011 to 2012. According to information posted on Safety.BLR.com, a total of 4,383 workers died in 2012, equaling a rate of 3.2 deaths per 100,000 full-time workers. This is a decrease from the rate of 3.5 per 100,000 in the year 2011.
Representatives from the BLS stated that they believe the decrease in fatalities is related to continuing education, outreach regarding workplace safety, and enforcement of safety regulations. However, the BLS also noted that an increase in the amount of oil and gas workers and construction employees has lead to more fatalities in those vocations.
The construction industry saw a 5% fatality increase from 2011 to 2012 while the oil and gas industry had a 23% increase in fatalities. In an effort to curtail increasing fatalities, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) will be putting outreach and education initiatives in place and has scheduled an oil and gas industry voluntary safety stand-down for November 14, 2013.
According to OSHA, falls are one of the greatest causes of construction-related deaths. As such, the agency has reminded workers to prevent injuries and fatalities through three steps:
- Planning ahead for coming tasks and determining what safety equipment is needed.
- Providing proper safety equipment, fall protection, and dependable scaffolds for workers.
- Training all workers to use equipment safely before they begin their job.
If you have been injured or lost a loved one on the job due to the negligence of a third party contractor or a negligent manufacturer’s defective products, contact the attorneys at Blume Forte. Our New Jersey construction worker injury lawyers provide no-cost consultations. The insight you may gain from speaking with one of our attorneys can help you protect your rights. Call 973-845-4421.