Recently released information from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) details trends in work-related fatalities in Ohio over roughly the past decade. The good news is that fatal injuries in 2018 — the last year for which data was reported— dropped to 158 from 174 the previous year. By contrast, the numbers nationwide rose in 2018 to 5,250 from 5,147 the prior year.
When looking at the type of incident that caused the fatal injuries in 2018, Ohio closely mirrored the country as a whole. The top five types of incidents that led to fatal injuries for Ohio workers in 2018 were:
- “Transportation incidents” — 60 fatalities
- “Contact with objects and equipment” — 27 fatalities
- “Violence and other injuries by persons or animals” — 25 fatalities
- “Falls, slips and trips” — 22 fatalities
- “Exposure to harmful substances or environments” — 22 fatalities
It should be no surprise, given these numbers, that people who work in occupations involving transportation and the moving of materials suffered the greatest number of fatalities. More than half were truck drivers.
Construction and extraction workers suffered the second largest number of fatalities of any occupational group. People who work in the cleaning and building and grounds maintenance industries suffered the third-highest fatality rates.
When we look at the demographics of the Ohioans who suffered these fatal injuries, we see that the vast majority (92%) were men. Over three-quarters (76%) were classified as “white non-Hispanics.” Most were between 25 and 64 years old. However, 13% were 65 or over.
Workers in these and all industries, even if they survive their injuries, can be incapacitated and unable to work for an extended period. They may require months and even years of medical care and other treatment, like physical therapy.
If you suffered a workplace injury, it’s essential to get the workers’ compensation and other benefits you need to pay for your care and support your family. If you’ve lost a loved one to a work-related injury, you have a right to seek the compensation you and your family need.