BLS Data Reveals Workplace Deaths Reached 5-Year High

medical professional performing cpr on a warehouse worker as a co-worker looks on in distress.

Getting hurt on the job can result in severe or fatal injuries.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics recently reported an 8.9% increase in work-related deaths from 2020 to 2021. Unfortunately, these numbers are a tragic reminder of the potential dangers many workers face daily while on the job.

It is important to note that most work-related fatalities are preventable, and action must be taken to address and mitigate risks to ensure the safety and well-being of all employees.

In 2021, the BLS reported 5,190 workplace deaths. According to Safety and Health Magazine, this marks the fifth time in six years that fatalities have exceeded the threshold of 5,000.

Additionally, the report provides insight into the various types of workplace accidents and the demographic groups disproportionately affected, highlighting the need for targeted prevention efforts.

Key takeaways of the report included:

An employee died from a work-related injury every 101 minutes.
Work-related transportation accidents were the most dangerous, accounting for 38.2 percent of all work-related injuries in 2021.
African American and Latino workers represented the highest fatality rates.

"The data included in this report indicate workplaces have become less safe, and it is heartbreaking," said National Safety Council president and CEO Lorraine Martin.

Fatal transportation accidents

Although slip and falls and falling objects are common causes of workplace accidents, transportation accidents remain a leading cause of workplace fatalities. For example, in 2021, there were 1,982 fatal injuries due to transportation incidents, according to the National Safety Council (NSC). These accidents involve cars, semi-trucks, trains, and other vehicles. Common types of fatal work-related transportation accidents include:

Being hit by a vehicle
Being run over
Accidents involving overturned vehicles
Accidents involving vehicle malfunctions
Accidents involving falling broken vehicle parts and cargo loads

These findings underscore the importance of workplace transportation safety protocols and education.

Tips for preventing workplace injuries

Preventing work-related injuries and fatalities is critical. While workers' compensation benefits may provide financial support to those injured on the job, it is crucial to prioritize workplace safety and accident prevention.

The Insurance Information Institute (III) suggests implementing strategies to reduce the risk of accidents in the workplace, such as developing and enforcing safety protocols, providing training and education to employees, and regularly assessing and addressing potential hazards.

Injured on the job in Mississippi? Let our family fight for you.

Injuries sustained at work can be both physically and financially debilitating. The medical expenses associated with work injuries can be overwhelming, but fortunately, workers' compensation benefits exist to alleviate this financial burden.

However, the process of obtaining benefits can be complicated to navigate without the help of an experienced workers' compensation attorney.

At Tabor Law Firm, P.A., we understand the complexities of Mississippi's workers' compensation system and how to help our clients through the process while they focus on healing.

Let our highly skilled attorneys fight for the compensation you need and deserve. If you were injured or a loved one died in a Mississippi work accident, we invite you to schedule a free consultation with us today. We can help you get the support you need to recover and move forward.