Workplace safety is a paramount concern for employers and workers alike. Although safety protocols and regulations are better than in the past, injuries happen more frequently than you might imagine.
There are a few surprising statistics about workplace injuries that everyone should understand.
1. Non-fatal injuries are more common than you think
While fatal workplace accidents often receive headlines, non-fatal injuries are far more common. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported approximately 2.6 million non-fatal workplace injuries in 2021. These injuries result in lost work time, sometimes lengthy recovery periods for workers and reduced productivity for businesses.
High-risk industries might surprise you
Many people assume that the industries to worry about are construction and manufacturing. The fact is that some of the higher-risk industries include healthcare and retail workplaces. According to Forbes Magazine, healthcare is the most dangerous profession in America.
Younger workers face greater risks
A report from the CDC indicates that workers under the age of 25 face a greater number of occupational injuries requiring emergency room care as compared to their older co-workers. This illustrates an increasing need for safety education among younger workers.
These statistics reflect troubling trends in workplace injuries. Recognizing the frequency of non-fatal workplace injuries and the industries and workers facing the highest risks can help to encourage safety practices and education. Employers should support worker training, safety standards implementation and operational changes. This helps reduce the risk of injuries, illnesses and lost work time. Proactive steps benefit both workers and the business by maintaining production and profitability.