U.S. Nonfatal Workplace Injuries Lowest Since 72'

Chrissie Cole

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A new report released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows the lowest rates in workplace injuries and illnesses since they began collecting data in 1972.

In 2006, private industry rates were at its lowest since the launch of BLS. Rates have dropped 4.6 cases per 100 workers in 2005 to 4.4 cases in 2006.

In 2005, manufacturing sector of good-producing industries had an especially lower rate of illnesses dropping from 66.1 in 2005 to 27.7 per 10,000 workers in 2006.

The decline resulted from a two percent increase in the amount of hours worked and a 3 percent decrease in the number of nonfatal injuries and illnesses.

The report confirms OSHA's consistent emphasis on prevention is paying off with lower on-the-job injuries and illnesses.

This report encourages us to continue our balanced strategy of fair and effective enforcement of standards, accident prevention education and cooperative programs with labor and industry, said OSHA Administrator Edwin Foulke.

For more information on this subject, please visit our section on Workplace Injuries.