Key findings from DOL's Fatal Occupational Injuries Summary

The recently released U.S. Department of Labor Statistics' Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries Summary for 2022 sheds light on the current state of workplace fatalities in the United States. This comprehensive report provides valuable insights into the trends, causes, and demographics surrounding these tragic incidents. In this article, we will explore the 10 key discoveries from the Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries Summary, highlighting the importance of workplace safety and the need for effective measures to protect workers.

• Fatal occupational injuries: The first major finding from the Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries Summary is the increase in fatal work injuries in 2022. According to the report, there were 5,486 fatal work injuries recorded in the United States, representing a 5.7 percent increase from the previous year. This alarming rise underscores the need for continued efforts to prioritize worker safety and implement effective prevention strategies.
• Disparities among Black and Hispanic workers: Another significant discovery from the report is the disproportionate impact of workplace fatalities on Black and Hispanic workers. The fatality rate for Black workers increased by 12.4 percent, while the rate for Hispanic workers grew by 10.4 percent. These disparities highlight the urgent need to address systemic inequalities and ensure equal protection for all workers, regardless of their race or ethnicity.
• Transportation and construction industries most affected: The Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries Summary reveals that the transportation and construction industries experienced the highest number of fatal work injuries in 2022. Workers in transportation and material moving occupations accounted for 1,620 fatalities, making it the occupational group with the most fatalities. Construction and extraction workers followed closely behind with 1,056 fatalities, representing an 11.0 percent increase from the previous year.
• Transportation incidents remain the leading cause: Transportation incidents continue to be the most frequent cause of occupational fatalities, accounting for 37.7 percent of all fatal work injuries. In 2022, there were 2,066 fatal injuries resulting from transportation incidents, marking a 4.2 percent increase from the previous year. This finding emphasizes the importance of implementing effective safety measures in the transportation industry to prevent accidents and save lives.
• Rise in violence-related fatalities: The Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries Summary also highlights a troubling increase in violence-related fatalities in the workplace. Fatalities due to violence and other injuries by persons or animals increased by 11.6 percent, with homicides accounting for 61.7 percent of these fatalities. This finding underscores the need for comprehensive workplace violence prevention programs and measures to protect workers from harm.
• Unintentional overdoses on the rise: The report reveals a concerning trend of annual increases in unintentional overdoses in the workplace since 2012. In 2022, there were 525 fatalities resulting from unintentional overdoses, marking a 13.1 percent increase from the previous year. This highlights the importance of addressing substance abuse and providing support for workers struggling with addiction to prevent tragic outcomes.
• Concerns about mental health: The report emphasizes the need to address mental health as part of overall worker safety and health. Suicides and work-related overdoses continue to be causes of great concern. The rise in suicides by 13.1 percent and exposure to harmful substances leading to fatalities call for comprehensive mental health support and prevention strategies in the workplace.
• Fatal events and exposures: The Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries Summary provides insights into various fatal events and exposures in the workplace. Transportation incidents involving motorized land vehicles increased by 9.3 percent, while roadway incidents reached a series high of 1,369 fatalities. Exposure to harmful substances or environments increased by 5.1 percent, primarily driven by unintentional overdoses. Fatalities due to exposure to temperature extremes and contact with objects and equipment also saw increases.
• Most affected occupational groups: The report highlights the occupational groups most affected by fatal work injuries. Transportation and material moving occupations had the highest number of fatalities, with a rate of 14.6 fatalities per 100,000 full-time equivalent (FTE) workers. Construction and extraction occupations followed closely behind. Protective service occupations also experienced a significant increase in fatalities, emphasizing the need for enhanced safety measures in these industries.

The Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries Summary for 2022 provides critical insights into the state of workplace fatalities in the United States. The report underscores the need for continued efforts to prioritize worker safety, address disparities among different worker demographics, and implement effective prevention strategies. By focusing on these key discoveries, we can work towards a safer and healthier work environment for all.