According to recently released numbers by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were approximately 2.9 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses reported by private industry employers in 2015, which occurred at a rate of 3.0 cases per 100 equivalent full-time workers. The 2015 rate continues a pattern of decline that, apart from 2012, has occurred annually for the last 13 years.
Private industry employers reported nearly 48,000 fewer nonfatal injury and illness cases in 2015 compared to a year earlier, according to estimates from the Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses. Because of this decline, combined with an increase in reported hours worked, the total recordable cases incidence rate fell 0.2 cases per 100 full-time workers.
Responding to the information, Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health Dr. David Michaels had this to say: “We are encouraged to see the significant decline in worker injury and illness rates. This is the result of the relentless efforts of employers, unions, worker advocates, occupational safety and health professionals, and federal and state government agencies ensuring that worker safety and health remains a top priority every day.
“Despite the decline, approximately 2.9 million private sector workers suffered nonfatal injuries and illnesses last year. At OSHA, we will continue to do all that we can to continue driving the rate down.”
