Workplace fatalities are continuing to increase, according to a report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Approximately one out of every four fatal injuries on the job are due to transportation incidents, the top cause of workplace incidents. Employees in Oklahoma and throughout the United States are also at an increased risk of experiencing injuries due to workplace violence and exposure to harmful substances, although injuries attributed to fires and explosions are on the decline.
The BLS report on workplace injuries also notes a sharp increase in overdoses occurring while individuals are on the job. The number of fatalities related to overdoses is also on the rise, reflecting a national trend of issues with drug abuse and misuse. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) has stated a commitment to address the rising opiate epidemic in the workplace with education and outreach efforts.
Occupations experiencing the greatest increase in fatal work-related injuries include ones involving food prep and serving, maintenance, installation, and repair, building maintenance and grounds-keeping, and sales-related jobs. Injuries resulting in loss of life have also increased for individuals working in the hospitality and leisure industry. There have also been increases for people in jobs involving logging, piloting airplanes, roofing, law enforcement, and protective services. Declines have been seen in healthcare, technical, military, and production occupations.
Regardless of the industry, any workplace accident could be serious. Seeking medical treatment is understandably the priority for anyone injured at work. Consulting with an attorney as soon as possible may minimize issues with worker’s compensation claims. A lawyer may be able to help an employee injured on the job explore their options and seek compensation for loss of income and medical expenses. Some accidents, especially ones involving spine and brain injuries, may impact every aspect of a person’s life.