The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) conducted a data study concerning incidents of fatal injury to United States grounds maintenance workers (GMWs) from 2003 through 2008. The results of this study were recently released in the CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR). Some of the notable conclusions found in this report include the following:
- An average of 190 GMWs were fatally injured at work each year during the five-year period from 2003-2008, totaling 1,142 fatalities.
- 3.4 percent of all occupational fatalities were of grounds maintenance workers.
- Approximately 99 percent of all GMW fatalities were males.
- Major causes of GMW fatalities, in order of prominence, include transportation incidents, contact with objects and/or equipment, falls and exposure to harmful environments or substances.
The New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) defines “a fatal injury [as]… work-related if the event leading to the injury occurred while the employee was working, either on or off the employer’s premises.”According to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 92 New Jersey workers were fatally injured on the job in 2008. Of the 92, nine were grounds maintenance workers. The leading causes of GMW deaths in New Jersey, which parallel those of the nation, are transportation incidents and contact with objects and or equipment.
As a result, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandate adherence with strict safety standards in various occupational industries in order to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries. However, sometimes contractors do not comply with these standards, thereby creating hazardous work environments.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a New Jersey work accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, damages and losses. The experienced New Jersey work injury lawyersat Blume Forte can determine the merit of your claim and advise you with regard to your legal possible options. Contact us at 973-845-4421 for a no-cost consultation.