How much ladder accidents cost

Falls are in the top three most disabling workplace injuries, and $17.1 billion is spent on workplace falls, according to the 2018 Liberty Mutual Workplace Safety Index. And ladders are #6 on OSHA’s top 10 most cited violations list.

ALI believes ladder accidents are preventable, but without better safety planning and training and continuous innovation in product design, we will continue to see far too many fatalities.

National Ladder Safety Month goals include:

• Increase the number of ladder training certificates issued by ALI
• Lower the rankings of ladder-related citations on OSHA’s yearly “Top 10 Citations List”
• Decrease ladder-related injuries and fatalities
• Increase the number of competent ladder inspector training sessions
• Increase the number of companies and individuals that inspect and properly dispose of old, damaged or obsolete ladders

Ladder safety will also be an important component of OSHA’s annual National Safety Stand-Down in May.

Have you tried the NIOSH ladder safety app that includes straight and step ladders?

Key elements of ladder safety:

What is a ladder weight rating?
A ladder’s weight rating is the combined weight of the climber and whatever the climber is carrying. Do not forget to account for equipment or accessories when selecting a ladder with the proper weight rating.

A taller ladder does NOT equate to a higher weight rating
To ensure you are using the right ladder for the job, check the Duty Rating of your ladder. The Duty Rating is the total amount of weight your ladder will support: Your weight plus the weight of your clothing and protective equipment plus the weight of tools and supplies you are using.

Ladder and fall safety applies at any height
More often than not, ladder injuries are caused by people using them incorrectly. An American Ladder Institute survey found 3 of 4 participants felt ladder accidents in their workplace could have been avoided with training.

Here’s how you can get involved and help improve safety
at your workplace:

• Learn more and sign up for Ladder Safety Month materials. 
• View free safety training modules.
• Plan for the National Safety Stand-down in May. 
• Review OSHA Standard 1926.1053 on stairways and ladders. 
• This study of workplace ladder falls offers insights. 
• Browse ladder safety signs and labels.

The post March is National Ladder Safety Month appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

Importance of Safety Signage in Pipeline Operations

Pipeline safety signage plays a critical role in the safety measures employed in pipeline operations. They serve as visual guides to pipeline workers, making them aware of potential hazards, reminding them of crucial safety protocols, and providing emergency evacuation routes. Through safety signs, pipeline personnel can recognize the danger zone, taking precautions before initiating any work activity. Effective safety signage can avert incidents, such as explosions and fires, damaging the products being transported, the pipeline infrastructure, and the environment.

Overview of Must-Have Safety Signs for Pipeline Workers

Based on the nature of the hazards present in the pipeline’s physical environment, OSHA demands five must-have safety signs for pipeline workers. These signs include caution signs, no smoking signs, high voltage warning signs, emergency exit signs, and PPE signs. Pipeline workers must pay attention to these warning signs to avert accidents and adhere to the set safety measures.

1. Caution Signage

Caution signs are designed for pipeline workers to be alert to any potential hazards at their specific work area. They come in yellow or orange background and are highlighted in black letters with a hazard symbol on the left side. They warn workers of an unusually specific type of hazard or situation that requires special attention to maintain safety in their work environment. It is essential to have specific caution signs, such as “Watch Your Step,” “Welding In Progress,” and “Slippery Surface.” According to the PHMSA regulations, employers must place caution signs in areas where there is a possibility of tripping, slipping, or falling and other hazardous activities.

2. No Smoking Signage

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires that pipeline operators prohibit smoking within a minimum of 50 feet of the pipeline’s operation and maintenance areas. No smoking signs are typically placed in these areas to indicate to workers and visitors where they are prohibited. Smoking near pipelines could trigger explosive accidents, increasing the risk of damaging the pipeline facilities and the surrounding environment. No smoking signs are designed using red and black lettering on a white background to help workers and visitors recognize their purpose. The PHMSA requires that pipeline facilities must have no smoking signs in areas where there is a risk of an ignition source.

3. High-Voltage Warning Signs

Electrical hazards are likely to occur in pipeline environments, with frequent use of electrical equipment. High voltage warning signs are essential for marking areas that pose electrical hazards and reminding workers to take necessary precautions. The warning signs are designed with triangular shapes on a yellow background with black letters. In compliance with OSHA regulations, workers must label the voltage capacity near electrical equipment, transformers, and power stations to reduce the chances of accidental contact with electricity.

4. Emergency Exit Signage

Emergency exits should be strategically located in pipeline facilities to help workers exit the area in case of emergencies. The exit signs come in green and white lettering on a rectangular background with arrows pointing to the emergency exit direction. Employers must provide a possible exit route that allows workers to escape to a safe distance during pipeline fires or leaks.

5. PPE Signage

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential in pipeline operations to minimize injuries caused by falls, slips, or potential exposure to hazardous chemicals. PPE signs indicate appropriate safety clothing, including eye protection, headgear, gloves, and footwear. The PPE signs come in blue, black, and white lettering on a white background to notify workers when PPE is required to initiate work in specific areas.

Protect Your Workers and the Public

Pipeline operators must make sure that each worker adheres to the best safety practices when working in pipeline environments. The must-have safety signs outlined in this blog, from caution signs, high voltage warnings, no smoking signs, PPE signs, and emergency exit signs, are crucial in ensuring the safety of pipeline workers and the community. By having a proper safety signage program in place, pipeline operators can mitigate the risks associated with pipeline operations. We invite you to browse compliancesigns.com for all your safety signage needs, including customized signs tailored to meet your unique preferences.

The post The 5 Must-Have Types of Safety Signage for Pipeline Operations appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

However, when it comes to workplace safety, the situation is multifaceted. Despite the existence of regulations and safety measures, the data indicates that we still have work to do to ensure that every worker can go to work and return home safely each day. 

Workplace Injury Statistics: The Unveiling

Now, let’s dig into the concrete facts and figures surrounding workplace injuries. To do this, we turn to the most reliable sources of information, such as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which meticulously compiles data on work-related injuries and fatalities.

As of the most recent available data, workplace injuries remain a significant concern. In 202 (the most recent data available), the BLS reported 2.6 million injury and illness cases. That’s down 18% from 2020.

Occupational fatalities, while a somber statistic, also demand our attention. In 2021, 5,190 workers lost their lives due to workplace accidents. This is up 8.9%  2020, but the pandemic kept many people home that year. Both 2018 and 2019 had more workplace fatalities. We want to see this number go down every year, and the overall trend over the past three decades shows that we’re making progress., 

Identifying Trends and Challenges

Understanding workplace safety requires dissecting the data to identify trends and challenges. One prominent trend is the disproportionate impact on certain industries. According to the National Security Council’s injury facts webpage the following industries stand out:

• Construction– experienced the most workplace deaths
• Education and health services– experienced the most nonfatal injuries and illnesses involving days away from work
• Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting– experienced the highest death rate per 100,000 workers
• Transportation and warehousing– experienced the highest injury and illness rate involving days away from work per 10,000 workers

It’s pretty easy to see how these trends develop. Industries that involve heavy physical labor in difficult conditions and using machinery have more fatalities. Lesser injuries and illnesses are prevalent in industries that involve spending a lot of time around many other people in enclosed environments. 

Another challenge lies in the types of injuries most commonly reported. Slips, trips, and falls are very common. Injuries due to overexertion or repetitive motion are up there as well. Contact with objects and equiptment is right up there as well. Addressing these specific injury types through targeted prevention measures is essential to reducing overall injury rates.

The Role of Regulations and Enforcement

Workplace safety is not solely the responsibility of employers and employees. Regulatory bodies like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) play a vital role in setting and enforcing safety standards. OSHA’s mission is to “ improve the safety of working conditions in the United States by providing technical assistance to employers and setting and enforcing workplace safety and health standards. OSHA conducts inspections, gives citations, levies penalties, provides consultations, and offers a wide variety of programs designed to help employers improve working conditions and reduce on-the-job hazards.”

While regulations are crucial, their effectiveness depends on adherence and enforcement. In some cases, violations of safety standards still occur, leading to accidents and injuries. OSHA’s penalties for safety violations in 2023 are:

As you can see, these fines can become very significant for any company that receives a violation, especially if they do not correct it in a timely manner. What’s more, these fines can tarnish the company’s public image, make recruiting more difficult, and even leave them open to potential lawsuits. 

Smart companies don’t try to avoid getting caught with safety violations, they strive to find and eliminate potential safety risks for the sake of their employees. OSHA should be a partner in safety, not a threat.

Improvements in Safety Culture

Amidst the challenges, there are positive developments in the realm of workplace safety. Many organizations have embraced the concept of a safety culture, where safety is deeply ingrained in the company’s DNA.

Employee training and awareness programs have also played a significant role in reducing workplace injuries. When workers are well-informed and proactive about safety, the likelihood of accidents decreases. Let’s take a look at some compelling reasons for implementing comprehensive safety training programs for your employees:

• 3.2 Million Non-Fatal Workplace Injuries in 2020: In the United States alone, approximately 3.2 million non-fatal workplace injuries occurred in the year 2020. 

• Over 600,000 Fatalities from Hazardous Substances in 2020: Alarmingly, more than 600,000 individuals lost their lives due to exposure to hazardous substances in 2020. 

• Slips and Falls as Leading Causes of Workplace Injuries: Slips and falls emerged as the predominant causes of workplace injuries, accounting for a staggering 75% of all occupational injuries. 

• OSHA’s Cost-Saving Insights: According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), investing in safety training yields substantial returns. In fact, for every dollar invested in safety training, organizations can save between $4 to $6. 

• Fostering a Safe Working Culture: Establishing a robust training program and raising awareness among your workforce can foster a culture of safety within your organization. Companies with well-trained employees consistently report lower rates of injuries and fatalities. 

The statistics presented here are a compelling testament to the necessity of prioritizing safety education and awareness within your organization. By investing in comprehensive safety training, you not only enhance workplace safety but also contribute to a culture where employees can thrive without compromising their well-being.

Are We Making Safer Workplaces?

So what are these numbers telling us? Have we made progress? Under a magnifying glass, it looks like we’re heading the wrong way. But, the workplace landscape has changed dramatically thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

To get a true look at our progress, you need to use a broader lens. Here are the recorded work-related injuries and illness incidents reported at the beginning of each of the last six decades. 

1980 –  8.7 per 100 full-time workers

1990 –  8.8 per 100 full-time workers

2000 – 6.1 per 100 full-time workers

2010 – 3.5 per 100 full-time workers

2020 – 2.7 per 100 full-time workers

This data shows a relatively steady rate of improvement over an extended period of time which means, yes, we are getting better. 

Making Tomorrow’s Workplace Safer Than Ever

In the grand scheme of improving safety in our lives, workplace safety is a critical piece of the puzzle. While we’ve made commendable progress in many areas, the statistics remind us that there is still work to be done. Every injury or fatality is a stark reminder that we must remain vigilant and committed to enhancing workplace safety.

Identifying trends, addressing industry-specific challenges, enforcing regulations, fostering a culture of safety, and implementing effective training programs are all steps in the right direction. However, one often overlooked aspect of workplace safety is the power of safety signage.

Safety signage serves as a visual reminder of potential hazards and safety protocols. Clear, well-placed signage can prevent accidents and injuries by guiding employees and visitors to make informed decisions. In this digital age, the impact of physical safety signage should not be underestimated.

Workplace safety is a shared responsibility that demands constant attention and improvement. By acknowledging the challenges, enforcing regulations, fostering safety culture, and harnessing the power of safety signage, we can continue our journey toward safer workplaces where every individual can return home unharmed at the end of the day. Together, we can build a safer, more secure future for all workers.

The post The State of Workplace Safety: Are We Getting Any Better? appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

Lead is a toxic metal that, if consumed, can cause serious health issues. And yet, there are no federal laws that regulate the levels of lead in school drinking water, leaving it up to the states and individual schools or school districts to determine how to address the issue — no small responsibility.

While the removal of lead from the drinking water is the ideal solution, it’s also a costly one. So there are a few ways schools can chip away at the problem over time. And the first step is becoming educated on the issue.

Current legislature regarding lead in drinking water

As of 2023, there are no federal laws that require schools to test the drinking water for lead if the school taps into the public water system. The United States also lacks a national health standard for the acceptable levels of lead in the drinking water as various federal agencies have differing thresholds for lead in drinking water.

That means responsibility lies at the state level. And unfortunately, only seven states and Washington, D.C. require lead tests in schools. An additional 17 states have programs for lead testing and elimination that are voluntary. But even these state-led initiatives vary wildly in terms of how much lead is acceptable, how the test are conducted, costs for lead testing, and access to the testing data.

Water testing services Tap Score and SimpleLab, conducted a nationwide investigation of state efforts to deal with lead contamination in drinking water in schools and daycare centers. The study looked at the number of schools in the state that tested for lead, the testing program’s rigor, and what measures were taken to address the issue if lead was found in the water supply. From there, Tap Score and SimpleLab gave each state a letter grade as to the effectiveness of their programs. Of the 50 states, 31 received an F, failing the test and most have no policy at all.

Similarly, a 2018 report written by the U.S. Government Accountability Office found that an estimated 41% of school districts — serving 12 million students — had not tested school water for lead in 2016 or 2017, and another 16% of school districts didn’t know whether they had tested for lead. Of those that did test for lead (43% of school districts surveyed, which represents 35 million students), about 37% found elevated lead levels in their school’s water.

The dangers of lead in school drinking water

Lead exposure — such as drinking from contaminated water — can cause serious health problems. Even at low levels, lead affects the central nervous system and can cause brain damage, kidney disease, anemia, and even death. Studies have shown that exposure to lead can lower IQ, decrease focus, cause learning disabilities, decrease growth, and even lead to violent crime and delinquency.

Children are particularly vulnerable because their bodies absorb more lead than adults. This is complicated by the fact that they spend much of their time in schools and daycare facilities. And according to the Environmental Protection Agency, these facilities may have higher elevated lead levels because they’re closed on weekends, holidays, and extended breaks, allowing lead in the pipes and fixtures to seep into the water supply.

How schools can create a safer environment for children

Because there aren’t national standards or laws to protect children from lead exposure in schools, that responsibility often falls on the district or individual school. Fortunately, most lead contamination comes from the faucet fixture or pipes in the school rather than the greater water distribution system. Unfortunately, it can be a challenge to pinpoint the source of the contamination and potentially expensive to fix.

A recent report from John Rumpler and Matt Casale from the Environment America Research & Policy Center and the U.S PIRG Education Fund recommended a few steps districts can take to make the drinking water in schools more safe for children. The report suggests that districts:

• Test for lead at all water outlets at all schools used for drinking or cooking and have a protocol for what to do if lead is found.
• Replace fountains with water stations that have filters certified to remove lead.
• Install, test and maintain filters certified to remove lead on all taps used for drinking or cooking.

For schools and districts that cannot afford to replace lead fixtures or pipes, one option is to invest in safety signage that identifies faucets that are not safe to drink from. By posting next to sinks in science labs, bathrooms, locker rooms, and cafeterias that warn of lead exposure, you can limit the risk of a student drinking water contaminated with lead.

ComplianceSigns has a variety of options for handwashing only signs that discourage school-age children from drinking from contaminated faucets. Browse our collection today and post signs near any faucet that has tested positive for lead contamination or that you suspect may cause lead exposure. This simple step creates a healthier, more successful student body and may even save a life.

The post The Dangers of Lead in School Drinking Water, and How to Keep Children Safe appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

The week-long outreach event coincides with Construction Safety Week and encourages employers and workers to pause during the work day to talk about fall hazards and prevention.

What is a Safety Stand-Down?

A Safety Stand-Down is a voluntary event for employers to talk directly to employees about safety. Any workplace can hold a stand-down by taking a break to focus on fall hazards and reinforcing the importance of fall prevention. It’s an opportunity for employers to have a conversation with employees about hazards, protective methods and the company’s safety policies and goals.

It can also be an opportunity for employees to talk to management about fall hazards they see. Companies can conduct a Safety Stand-Down by taking a break to have a toolbox talk or another safety activity such as conducting safety equipment inspections, developing rescue plans, or discussing job specific hazards. Managers are encouraged to plan a stand-down that works best for their workplace anytime during the week.

Suggestions for a Successful Stand-Down

1. Try to start early. Designate a coordinator to organize the stand-down. If you have multiple work sites, identify the team that will lead the stand-down at each site.

2. Get others involved. Ask your subcontractors, owner, architects, engineers, or others associated with your project to participate in the stand-down.

3. Review your fall prevention program – and what types of falls are likely to occur at your worksite. This will help provide a more effective stand-down. Common incidents include falls from:

• Ladders
• Roofs
• Scaffolds
• Stairs
• Structural steel
• Falls through a floor or roof opening or a fragile roof surface

Fall Protection Questions to Ask:

What needs improvement? Is your program meeting its goals? Are you experiencing fatalities, injuries, or near misses? Are employees aware of the company’s fall protection procedures? What training have you provided to your employees? Does it need revision? What equipment have you provided to employees? Is better equipment available?

5 Steps For Your Stand-Down

1. Develop presentations or activities that will meet the needs of your employees. The meeting should provide information about hazards, protective methods, and the company’s safety policies, goals and expectations. Hands-on exercises (a worksite walkaround, equipment checks, etc.) can increase retention.
2. Decide when to hold the stand-down and how long it will last. Decide if the stand-down will take place over a break, a lunch period or some other time.
3. Promote the stand-down. Make it interesting to employees. Some employers find that serving snacks increases participation.
4. Hold your stand-down. Be positive and interactive. Let employees talk about their experiences and encourage them to make suggestions.
5. Follow up. If you learn something that could improve your fall prevention program, consider making changes.

Stand-Down Resources:

• Stand-Down and Fall Prevention Materials
• Stand-Down FAQs
• Find events in your area
• Construction Safety Week information
• Construction Safety Week banners
• Browse Ladder Safety signs and Fall Protection PPE signs.

The post 2024 National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls is May 6-10 appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

Workplace Conditions That Warrant Steel Toe Shoes

Heavy Items

The most obvious workplace that calls for the protection of steel toes is one where workers are lifting and moving heavy items. Construction sites, warehouses and farms can all fall into this category. Whenever a person picks up a large item, there is a risk of it being dropped and landing on someone’s foot, potentially causing injury. Steel toe boots are strong protection because they can take the brunt of the impact, preventing the weight from landing on toes.

Large, Movable Machinery

Another space where protective footwear is important is areas where large machines are used and moved. A heavy machine can easily break bones if it accidentally rolls over an unprotected foot. Steel toe shoes can prevent such injury. Consider requiring them in factories, assembly areas and auto repair shops.

Sharp Materials or Tools

Some jobs call for people to work with potentially dangerous objects, such as sharp tools or live wires. These create a big risk for safety if something should fall and hit a worker’s foot. Electricians must make sure everyone is protected with durable, non-conductive steel toe boots to reduce the risks of cuts or electrical shocks.

Slippery Floors

Most styles of steel toe footwear are also designed with sturdy treads providing strong traction. This makes them good choices for job sites that tend to have wet or slippery floors, as well as workplaces with uneven terrain. Anyone working with oil or chemicals that could spill should wear protective footwear. Landscapers, carpenters and mine workers should also put on boots to have better footing as they complete their tasks.

Designating Areas Where PPE Is Required

Once you identify which areas of your operation pose the most risk to workers, you should require all employees to wear steel toe boots in those spaces. Start by educating all managers and workers about the enhanced safety rules and explaining why they are important.

You can make this more effective by installing foot PPE safety signs that let people know what safety gear they need to enter a given space – including foot PPE. For example, you can post a safety glasses, steel toe boots and hard hats required sign to notify workers what PPE is required to enter the main work area of a manufacturing plant. Post these signs at each entrance and exit and throughout the space so everyone is well-informed about PPE requirements.

Foot PPE Safety Signs:

Risks of Not Wearing Steel Toe Shoes

Not wearing steel toe footwear in high-risk workplaces can lead to serious foot injuries and even fatalities. Workers will be at a disadvantage every time they step into your facility if they don’t have the proper equipment. Here are some of the risks of not wearing foot PPE in hazardous locations.

Foot Injuries

Foot injuries are common in high-risk workplaces. They can happen in an instant. All it takes is for someone to lose their grip on a heavy item or sharp object, or step into the path of a large machine being moved. A serious foot injury can potentially lead to permanent disability.

Slips and Falls

Slips and falls are another common incident, especially on wet and uneven surfaces. Not wearing protective footwear can increase the risk of tripping and lead to head injuries and broken bones.

Electrical Hazards

Electricians and construction workers often are exposed to electrical hazards. Failing to wear sturdy footwear with non-conductive soles can increase the risk of electrical shocks.

Chemical Exposure

Manufacturing and automotive workers are routinely exposed to various chemicals. Shoes built with steel are better at preventing spilled chemicals from seeping into the shoe and reaching the skin.

Reduced Productivity

Foot injuries reduce productivity and increase costs for employers, while reducing income for workers. Using the correct safety gear allows workers to approach projects confidently and efficiently.

Require Steel Toe Shoes To Increase Safety

Safety needs to be a shared goal for your entire organization, and that includes making sure everyone has the right protective equipment. If your workplace presents foot hazards, consider which locations call for steel toe shoes and give your workers the protection they need to navigate safely.

PPE Resources

• OSHA PPE website
• NIOSH directory of PPE
• Guide to Personal Protective Equipment
• PPE Signs and labels at ComplianceSigns
• General construction safety signs

The post Where and When To Wear Steel Toe Shoes appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

OSHA Form 300A Deadline is March 2

March 2 is the deadline for electronically reporting your OSHA Form 300A workplace injury and illness data for calendar year 2022. Post your 300A Summary at your workplace through April.
More Info

Resources for Ladder Safety Month

Falls from ladders cause 300 deaths and some 20,000 injuries each year. Ladder Safety Month in March aims to prevent ladder falls, and offers free resources to promote ladder safety in your workplace.
Learn More

Improve Workplace Safety Without Going Broke

Workplace safety programs don’t have to be costly. Check this post for seven approaches any business can adopt to reduce the risk of worker injuries without breaking the bank. 
Read More

5S: Tool Control Best Practices

Time wasted searching for a tool is a significant‌ ‌problem‌ ‌for‌ ‌many‌ ‌operations.‌ ‌Studies‌ ‌show‌ ‌that‌ ‌nearly‌ ‌20%‌ ‌of‌ ‌a‌ ‌worker’s‌ ‌day‌ ‌is‌ ‌spent‌ ‌on‌ ‌wasteful‌ ‌activities‌ ‌such‌ ‌as‌ ‌searching‌ ‌for‌ ‌tools.‌ But you can fix workplace tool control headaches with 5S. 
Learn How

Time to Review Your AED Program

February is American Heart Month – the perfect time to review or implement a workplace AED and CPR training program at your company. Why AEDs? Because 10,000 cardiac arrests occur annually in the workplace.
Learn More

Safety Tip: Industrial Trash Compactors

Industrial trash compactors offer many benefits, but as with most large machines, there are safety risks if workers aren’t trained and reminded to use them safely. Check these eight safety tips to keep your crew safe.
Learn More

News & Notes

OSHA construction advisory meeting on March 1
The public meeting will take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. EST in person and virtually. Hear updates about OSHA, the construction industry and the National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction, from May 1 to 5 this year. Get Details.

ASSP publishes third edition of Safety Professionals Handbook
The new, updated edition features learning objectives and review questions; case studies that reflect real-world experiences; updated references to OSHA regulations and consensus standards; and an appendix with formulas, computations and rules of thumb. Learn more.

SARA Title III: Tier 2 reports due March 1

If you retain hazardous substances in bulk quantities, you may need to file a Tier 2 report, providing information to local emergency responders on how to handle a spill or other emergency situation. Learn more.

Upcoming safety webinars presented by OH&S

• Mar. 1 – How to Reduce Hand Injures in Construction
• Mar. 8 – Safety Culture that Sticks
• Mar. 22 – Arc Flash Hazards and Prevention Strategies

Learn More or Sign Up

The post Top Safety News for February 2023 appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

While workplace illnesses declined sharply compared to 2020, both the number and rate of workplace injuries and fatalities increased in 2021. The rate of injury increased 6.3 percent to 2.2 million cases and the number of workplace fatalities increased 8.9 percent to 5,190.

Fatal injuries in 2021 were led by workers in transportation and material moving occupations, who experienced a record high of 1,523 – an increase of 18.8 percent from 2020. Injuries and illnesses were once again highest in the health care and social assistance sector, but retail trade and transportation and warehousing had the largest increases in cases.

Here are some key points on 2021 workplace injuries and fatalities. Keep them in mind as you manage your own safety plan for 2023.

Key 2021 Workplace Injury and Illness Data

The overall rate of injury cases increased in 2021 to 2.3 per 100 FTE (full-time equivalent) workers, vs. 2.2 in 2020. Among key reporting sectors, only food manufacturing showed a reduced rate.

The rate of illness cases decreased from 55.9 per 10,000 FTE workers to 37.7. The decrease was driven by a drop in respiratory illness rate, which fell from 44.0 to 27.8 cases per 10,000 FTE workers.

Combined, there were 1,062,700 nonfatal injuries or illnesses causing workers to miss at least one day of work in 2021. That overall total is 9.7 percent lower than in 2020. The overall decrease is due to the reduction of COVID cases across the country, compared to 2020 levels.

2021 Injury and Illness by Industry

Transportation and warehousing – Cases increased 23.0 percent to 122,700, up from 99,800 cases in 2020.

Retail trade – The incidence rate increased from 3.1 in 2020 to 3.6 cases in 2021, an increase of 15.6 percent.

Wholesale trade – Incidence rate increased 12.1 percent to 40,400 cases.

Construction – Incidence rate increased 10.4 percent to 35,200 cases.

Leisure and hospitality – 235,300 total recordable cases in 2021, with a rate of 2.9 cases per 100 FTE workers, vs. 2.7 cases in 2020.

Food manufacturing – Incidence rate decreased from 2.5 to 2.1 cases in 2021, a decrease of 15.1 percent.

Counts of total nonfatal occupational injuries and illnesses, injuries, illnesses and respiratory illnesses in private industry, 2017-21 (thousands):

Key 2021 Workplace Fatality Facts

A worker died every 101 minutes from a work-related injury in 2021. The 5,190 fatal injuries in 2021 is an 8.9-percent increase from 2020. The fatal injury rate was 3.6 per 100,000 FTE workers, up from 2020 and also the highest since 2016.

Transportation incidents accounted for 38.2 percent of work-related fatalities in 2021 and remained the most frequent type of fatal event. The total of 1,982 fatalities is an increase of 11.5 percent from the prior year.

Worker characteristics

• Workers between ages 45 and 54 suffered 1,087 workplace fatalities, a 13.9-percent increase from 2020. This age group accounted for just more than one of every five fatalities (20.9 percent)
• Transportation and material moving workers suffered the highest number of fatalities – a record-setting 1,523. This is an increase of 18.8 percent from 2020.
• Fatality rates among African American workers (4.0) and Hispanic or Latino workers (4.5) per 100,000 FTE workers were higher than the overall worker rate of 3.6.
• Women suffered 8.6 percent of workplace fatalities, and represented 14.5 percent of intentional injuries by a person in 2021.

Fatal event or exposure

Violence and other injuries by persons or animals caused 761 fatalities in 2021, up from 705 in 2020 (7.9 percent). The largest subcategory, intentional injuries by person, increased 10.3 percent to 718.

Exposure to harmful substances or environments led to 798 worker fatalities in 2021, the highest figure since the BLS created the series in 2011. This category increased 18.8 percent from 2020 – the largest of any category. Overdose from nonmedical use of drugs or alcohol accounted for 58.1 percent of these fatalities (464 deaths), up from 57.7 percent in 2020.

Falls, slips and trips increased 5.6 percent in 2021 to 850 incidents. Construction and extraction occupations accounted for 370 of these fatalities, an increase of 7.2 percent from 2020.

Occupations

• Driver/sales workers and truck drivers had a 16.3-percent increase in deaths, growing to 1,032 deaths in 2021.
• Construction and extraction occupations had the second-most occupational deaths (951) in 2021, despite experiencing a 2.6-percent decrease in fatalities from 2020.
• Installation, maintenance and repair occupations had 475 fatalities in 2021, an increase of 20.9 percent.
• The fatal injury rate for fishing and hunting workers decreased from 132.1 per 100,000 FTEs in 2020 to 75.2 in 2021.

Workplace injury and fatality resources:

• BLS news release on 2021 workplace injuries and illnesses (pdf)
• BLS Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries news release
• OSHA injury and illness recordkeeping and reporting requirements
• Browse workplace safety signs, tags and labels at ComplianceSigns.com

The post Workplace Illness Down, But Injuries and Fatalities Up in 2021 appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

Top 10 Disabling Workplace Injuries by Direct Cost to U.S. Businesses

1. Overexertion Involving Outside Sources – $12.63 billion – Related to lifting, pushing, pulling, holding, carrying or throwing
2. Falls on the Same Level – $10.26 billion – Such as slipping on a wet floor
3. Struck by Object or Equipment – $5.66 billion – Such as an object falling from above
4. Falls to Lower Level – $5.07 billion – Most often, falls from a ladder or platform
5. Other Exertions or Bodily Reactions – $4.01 billion – Injuries from bending, twisting, reaching or similar
6. Roadway Incidents Involving Motorized Vehicles – $3.59 billion – Highway accidents are one example
7. Slip or Trip Without Fall – $2.52 billion – Trips on cords are common
8. Caught In or Compressed By Equipment – $2.19 billion – Getting caught in rollers or gears
9. Struck Against Object or Equipment – $1.87 Billion – Walking into an open drawer or door – Ouch!
10. Incidents Involving Off-road Vehicles / Equipment – $1.39 billion – Construction sites have plenty of hazards

Workplace Injury Costs by Industry

The Index also reports the causes and costs of the most serious workplace injuries for eight specific industries that account for a high proportion of all national workplace injuries. The industries with the five highest workplace injury costs were:

1. Construction – $11.3 billion
2. Manufacturing – $8.42 billion
3. Professional and Business Services – $7.60 billion
4. Healthcare and Social Assistance – $5.39 billion
5. Retail – $5.25 billion

2021 Workplace Injury Trends

In 2021, there were 2.2 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses reported by private industry employers, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The incidence rate for total recordable cases (TRC) in private industry reached 2.3 per FTE worker.

Resources:

• Review the Liberty Mutual infographic on injuries at work.
• Review workplace injury and illness rates for 2021.
• Browse digital safety scoreboards that track safe working days.

The post Causes and Costs of the Top 10 Disabling Workplace Injuries appeared first on SafeWork Insider.

When you think about the variety of applications scaffolds are used for, would you ever question the safety or durability of them?  Sure hope your answer is yes! 

Although scaffolds are regularly used, they contribute to an estimated 9,000 injuries and 79 fatalities annually, per OSHA. Scaffold citations continue to soar to the Top 10 OSHA list.

No matter how safe or sturdy a scaffold may look, it can only support the weight capacity specified by the manufacturer. 

OSHA has very specific standards outlined in 29 CFR 1926.451 General Requirements for Scaffolding to protect workers. They require each scaffold or scaffolding component to be capable of supporting, without failure, its own weight and at least four times the maximum intended load.

All scaffolds must be rated by the manufacturer to withstand the maximum load capacity. They determine the rating by the frame and cross-bracing design of the scaffold and its plank requirements.

Before a worker can consider walking on a scaffold, they must be properly trained by a qualified person. Training includes identification of electrocution, falls, and fall object hazards. A competent person has to inspect the scaffold before the work shift to ensure it’s safe for use.

Here’s a comprehensive list of the do’s and don’ts for scaffold safety, as noted by OSHA.

Do’s:

1. Do be mindful of coworkers working above and below
2. Do stay off scaffold during loading or unloading
3. Do replace guardrails after loading or unloading
4. Do use 3-point climbing
5. Do exit mobile scaffolds before moving 
6. Do always wear full protection to avoid accidents
7. Do follow OSHA standards for scaffold safety, including personal fall arrest system requirements.

Don’ts:

1. Don’t allow debris or materials to collect on scaffold
2. Don’t’ overreach outside the guardrails
3. Don’t stand on ties, guardrails, or extensions
4. Don’t overload the scaffold. Proper training includes being informed about the max intended load of the scaffold you’re working on, as well as its load-carrying capacities
5. Don’t use a scaffold if it appears to be damaged in any way
6. Don’t climb on any portion of the scaffold frame not intended for climbing
7. Don’t walk on scaffold planking covered in mud, water, snow, or ice

Regardless of the structural design of the scaffold, workers must be trained to recognize terms associated with capacity limits when working on scaffolds.

How can you visually protect workers?

• Use scaffold inspection tags to provide a detailed list of the safety requirements and who is allowed to use the structure
• Post weight limit signs and labels
• Use lockouts when a scaffold isn’t ready to be used
• Restrict access with barricades if the scaffold is unsafe and needs to be taken apart

In addition to these scaffold safety do’s and don’ts, using a guardrail on a scaffold is very critical in preventing falls. Nearly ¾ of the reported scaffold accidents are caused by improper guarding.

Guardrails are not required, however:

• When the front end of all platforms are less than 14 inches (36 centimeters) from the face of the work
• When outriggers scaffolds are 3 inches (8 centimeters) or less from the front edge
• When employees are plastering and lathing 18 inches (46 centimeters) or less from the edge.

Never assume the scaffold is safe. Always follow OSHA safety requirements and ensure a competent person inspects the integrity of the scaffold.

Scaffold Safety Resources:

• OSHA Scaffolding eTool
• OSHA Guide to Scaffold Use in Construction (pdf)
• Review a NIOSH report on preventing scaffold injuries and deaths
• Browse ladder and scaffold safety signs, tags and labels at ComplianceSigns.com

The post General Scaffold Safety Do’s and Don’ts appeared first on SafeWork Insider.