WASHINGTON – Occupational
injury and illness data released
today by the Bureau of Labor Statistics showed a significant drop in the
rate of recordable workplace injuries and illnesses in 2015, continuing a
pattern of decline that, apart from 2012, has occurred annually for the last 13
years.
Private industry employers reported about 2.9 million
nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses in 2015, representing a decline of
about 48,000 from 2014, despite an increase in total hours worked. The rate of
cases recorded was 3.0 cases per 100 full-time workers – down from 3.2 in 2014.
The rate is the lowest recorded since at least 2002, when OSHA recordkeeping
requirements were modified.
Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and
Health issued the following statement:
“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. That is still far too many. At OSHA, we will
continue to do all that we can to continue driving the rate down.”
Under the
Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for
providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA’s role
is to ensure these conditions for America’s working men and women by setting
and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance. For
more information, visit www.osha.gov.
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