In 2014, the total number of workplace deaths increased by two percent, most notably among contracted, self-employed, and aging workers. Preliminary numbers from the federal government put the 2014 total death toll at 4,679, whereas the 2013 death toll was 4,585.
Fatal workplace injuries among women rose 13 percent in 2014, yet these fatalities comprised only 8 percent of total deaths. Contracted and self-employed workers percentages jumped up to 10 and 6 percent respectively. However, the rise in contracted and self-employed worker fatalities may be somewhat misconstrued, as independent contractors sometimes classify their employees as contracted or self-employed to avoid wage regulations and workers compensation.
In terms of racial and ethnic groups, the fatality rates for African-American workers increased to 3.0 per every 100,000 workers, and the workplace death rate for Asian-American workers increased to 1.7 per every 100,000 workers. The death rate for Caucasian workers stayed roughly the same, whereas Latino workers saw the most job fatalities in 2014, with 3.6 deaths per every 100,000 workers. However, workplace deaths among Latinos decreased in 2014 from the previous years rate of 3.9 per every 100,000 workers.
Aging workers, aged 55 and over, saw a 9 percent hike in workplace deaths, bringing their total number of fatalities to 1,621. This census figure is the highest increase documented by the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This is most likely due to the fact that people are working longer, and older employees may have a higher risk of health and safety threats.
Occupations such as construction, mining, farming, and manufacturing have increasing workplace fatalities as well. According to Keshia M. Pollack, an occupational expert, these deaths may be prevented through training, protective equipment, and better workplace policies.
If you have suffered a workplace injury or accident, contact the knowledgeable workers compensation lawyers at Phillips Law Group today.
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