2010 BLS-Estimated Worker Fatality Statistics Coming This Month

According to Occupational Health & Safety, the Occupational Health and Safety Administration’s (OSHA) online magazine, on August 25, 2011, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) will be releasing its 2010 Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries (CFOI). Issues addressed in this report include whether fatality numbers, especially in the construction industry, have continued to decrease as a result of the economic recession.

According to the online report, occupational fatalities in 2009 had fallen sharply from those in 2008 due to a weakened economy. In 2009, there was an estimated 4,340 work fatalities, which was a 17 percent decrease from the 2008 total of 5,214. The 2009 number was the smallest preliminary annual fatality count in the CFOI’s history since it began in 1992. The most drastic drop in fatalities was in the construction field.

Although the construction industry still surpassed other occupational industries in total worker fatalities in 2009, the decrease of construction projects and in total hours worked has subsequently resulted in a drop in fatal construction injuries. Total construction fatalities decreased 16 percent in 2009, after an even sharper decline of 19 percent in 2008.

The construction industry is one of the most dangerous occupational industries. Workers are required to work underground, in trenches, high above the ground, on scaffolds, with complicated machinery and dangerous tools, in proximity to electrical current and around toxic substances. Without proper training and without taking the appropriate and required safety precautions, construction workers are at risk of severe injury or death.

If you have suffered a construction accident injury in New Jersey that you believe was caused by the negligence of a contractor, sub-contractor or property owner, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, damages and losses. Contact the experienced New Jersey construction accident injury lawyers at Blume Forte today at 973-845-4421 for a no cost evaluation of your potential claim.

Related Articles: