In the past two decades, approximately 93,000 American workers lost their lives—and the majority of these incidents were preventable. Statistics indicate there are certain industries that are more hazardous for workers, but with better safety standards in place, it's possible to create more thorough oversite in workplace accidents and reduce employer negligence.  

High-Risk Industries Where Workplace Injuries and Fatalities Are Increasing

Construction worker lying on the groundThe National Safety Council (NSC) determined that unintentional injuries and deaths from accidents on the job—such as vehicle crashes, falls, and exposure to toxic chemicals or other substances— have increased dramatically since 2008. The sharpest rise occurred in 2014, when nearly 4,200 workers died in preventable accidents. This is a 6 percent increase since 2013, and the first significant increase in deaths in 20 years.
Since 2013, certain industries had steep increases in workplace injuries:

  • An 18 percent rise in agriculture, forestry, and fishing
  • An 18 percent rise in mining
  • An 11 percent rise in manufacturing
  • An 8 percent rise in construction

In addition, older workers are especially at risk of dying in workplace accidents. In 2014, nearly 2,000 workers aged 55 or older died—a 4 percent increase over 2013.

How to Prevent Injuries and Deaths

The NSC offers a number of recommendations to keep workers safe:

  • Employers should participate in the NSC's "Journey to Safety Excellence" program, which is a roadmap for creating a safer workplace.
  • Temporary and contract workers are at greater risk of suffering injuries and deaths at work, so employers and co-workers should take extra precaution for their protection.
  • Improve data collection and record keeping of occupational illnesses and injuries
  • Employees can protect workers' rights by speaking up for safer workplaces, especially in the case of negligence.

Unfortunately, many people in Texas work for employers who are allowed to opt out of providing workers’ compensation benefits. This poses an additional challenge when dealing with workplace injuries or fatalities.

Have You Been Injured At Your Texas Job And Your Employer Doesn't Provide Workers' Compensation?

If you've been injured on the job and your employer is non-subscriber you need to speak with an experienced work injury lawyer as soon as possible. Contact us online or call our our Colleyville office directly at 817.485.8888 to schedule your free consultation.

David Hart
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Helping victims throughout Fort Worth, Arlington, North Richland, Grapevine, Bedford, Hurst and points between
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