The US Bureau of Labor Statistics recently released data indicating 5,486 workers died from workplace injuries in the US in 2022, a 5.7% increase from 2021.
These deaths equated to one worker dying every 96 minutes, totalling 15 daily and over 100 weekly. Workplace fatalities spiked post-COVID, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Notably, these numbers don't include deaths from occupational illnesses like COVID-19.
Workplace violence and temperature-related deaths rose in 2022, with homicides accounting for a significant portion of workplace violence fatalities. Transportation and construction workers faced the highest fatalities, with falls and equipment-related incidents contributing significantly to construction worker deaths.
The report highlighted that African American and Latino workers experience higher rates of workplace deaths, with increased fatality rates compared to previous years for both groups.
Despite these statistics, many worker deaths go unnoticed by the public. The report emphasises the importance of acknowledging and learning from these workplace tragedies.
View the US Bureau of Labor Statistics report here