• 10
  • February
    2012

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics recently reported that between 2009 and 2010 the number of workplace deaths in New England and Connecticut increased. In 2010, 146 workplace deaths were reported in New England, an increase of 7 from the 139 reported in 2009. Every additional death is a tragedy and in cases where a death was caused by negligence of another a wrongful death claim may be appropriate.

In New England, states with larger working forces, such as Connecticut and Massachusetts reported the most fatalities. Vermont and Maine had the fewest reported workplaces deaths.

In 2010, nationally 4,547 workplace deaths were reported, which was largely unchanged from 2009.

Causes of Fatal Injuries in Connecticut

The Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries is compiled by the Bureau of Labor Statistics and pulls together information on all workplace fatalities. The program combines information from several different sources to ensure accurate statistics.

In Connecticut, 49 workers died while on the job. This was the state's highest number since 2004, although this number is not the highest in the region. The most common workplace accidents that resulted in a worker's death included violent acts and assaults, transportation incidents and explosions or fire.

The data allows for an in-depth analysis of the causes of catastrophic workplace injuries. Some of the most common construction-related accidents were falls, in particular falling to a lower level, and being struck by equipment. Transportation accidents, such as collisions and being struck by a vehicle also account for many tragic fatal accidents.

The industries reporting the highest numbers of worker deaths were transportation, construction, material moving and extraction or mining. Over half of the reported deaths were employees between the ages of 35-54.

The increase in workplace fatalities should cause employers to pause and review safety policies to make sure that workers are adequately protected from catastrophic injury.

Source: Boston Business Journal, "New England workplace deaths climbed in 2010," Thomas Grillo, Dec. 15, 2011