The US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) was created to “ensure safe and
healthful working conditions for workers by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education and assistance,” according to its website.
Over the past 50 years, OSHA has helped reduce workplace injuries and fatalities and create a safer working environment for millions of Americans. Working closely with the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), OSHA takes into consideration the latest workplace injury and fatality data to adjust workplace safety standards.
Injuries Requiring Extended Time Off
According to BLS, the number of days workers need to recover from their injuries will depend on the type of injury.
The median number of days workers need to recover from the following injuries:
● Multiple fractures and injuries: 48
● Fractures: 32
● Amputations: 31
● Carpal tunnel syndrome: 30
● Tendonitis: 14
● Strains, tears, and sprains: 11
● Multiple traumatic injuries: 9
● Soreness or pain: 8
● Multiple sprains with injuries: 7
● Contusions and bruises: 5
● Heat burns: 5
● Lacerations, punctures, and cuts: 4
● Chemical burns: 3
Causes of Fatal Injuries
The six most common causes of fatal workplace injuries in 2018 were:
● Transportation accidents: 2,080 fatalities
● Violence and other injuries caused by persons or animals: 828 fatalities
● Falls, slips, and trips: 792 fatalities
● Contact with objects and equipment: 786 fatalities
● Exposure to harmful chemicals or environments: 621 fatalities
● Fires and explosions: 115 fatalities
Causes of workplace fatalities in 2020 include:
● Falls from scaffolds, roofs, and trees
● Electrocutions
● Being struck or crushed by heavy trucks and trailers
● Trench collapses and dumping accidents
● Shooting and other forms of violence
● Heavy machinery and crane accidents
● Accidents in the work zone and at construction sites
Occupations With The Highest Rates of Fatalities
In 2019, the following occupations had the highest number of workplace fatalities per 100,000 full-time equivalent workers:
● Agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting: 23.4
● Transportation and warehousing: 14
● Construction: 9.5
● Wholesale trade: 5.3
● Professional and business services: 3.3
Risk Factors for Workplace Injuries
According to OSHA, the safety violations found in the leading causes of job-related injuries, illnesses, and fatalities in 2020 were:
● Poor fall protection
● Poor hazard communication standards
● Poor respiratory protection
● Unsafe scaffolding
● Unsafe ladders
● Failure to control hazardous energy
● Poor fall protection training
● Poor eye and face protection
● Unsafe machinery
● Poor machine guarding
● Improper use of powered industrial trucks
What To Do If You’ve Been Injured
If you’ve sustained an injury or developed an illness caused by workplace responsibilities, then you need to file a workers’ compensation claim with your employer’s insurer. Follow the instructions provided by your employer to ensure your claim is reviewed and approved.
If your workers’ compensation claim is denied, you may need to hire a work injury attorney in Orange County to obtain the benefits you deserve. An experienced attorney will file important documents on your behalf and support your medical recovery.
The Next Step
Choosing a competent work injury lawyer in Orange County is the best way to make sure you receive all of the benefits you deserve. To discuss your claim with award-winning attorney Thomas F. Martin, call us today at 714-547-5025 or reach out to us online to schedule a free and confidential consultation.