Workplace accidents can occur in any field of employment and are more common than most people realize. According to a one-year study conducted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) for the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) and the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), private industry in the U.S. reported there were 111,273,100 nonfatal occupational injuries and illnesses. The goods producing industry fared a little better with 23,285,300 nonfatal occupational injuries and illnesses. Other industries included in the study consist of the natural resources and mining industry with 1,572,700 reported cases and the agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting industry with 970,700 reported cases. Keep in mind that these numbers represent one year‘s worth of workplace related injuries.
The Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries conducted by the BLS estimates that close to six thousand Americans die in workplace accidents every year. The DOL considers the timber and fishing industries as the most dangerous jobs to hold in America. Together, these tow industries account for more deaths than the rest of the industries surveyed by the DOL. Air transportation, construction work, ground transportation, and highway work are also among the most dangerous occupations in the U.S.
According to the Workplace Injury and Illness Rates by Demographic Group study conducted by the BLS, in one year, an estimated 415,880 incidents resulted in days away from work for females working in private industry in the U.S. Of these incidents, 136,340 cases were due to musculoskeletal disorders. The study also estimates that there were 2.6 nonfatal amputations per every 10,000 full-time workers in private sector manufacturing in the U.S.
Workplace accidents happen in every industry and occupation regardless of where they rate on any of the hazardous occupation surveys. Job related injuries and fatalities do not have to be the result of unintentional or accidental circumstances or mishaps, they could also be the product of assault or deliberate acts of aggression.
Workplace accidents can include or result from any of the following:
Employees that are hurt on the job should have the right to compensation for their injuries, medical expenses, and lost wages. The loss of income and overwhelming medical bills can have unintended effects on a family.
If you have been injured on the job, do not surrender your rights and privileges consult with a personal injury attorney experienced in workplace accident cases before it is too late. You may qualify for other benefits and compensation for your specific condition or injury.