Pennsylvania reports decline in fatal work accidents in 2012

Workplace fatalities can highlight certain hazards in the workplace that need to be addressed and improved. Companies and workers should be aware of fatal work accidents in their industry and in general to stay up-to-date on safety issues and how workplace safety can be improved.

Workers in Pennsylvania may be surprised to hear that workplace fatalities have declined in the state. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that in 2012, Pennsylvania had 163 workplace fatalities. This is the lowest reported number of workplace deaths since 1992.

The BLS also reported that Pennsylvania had a decline in the number of deaths per 100,000 workers, with the state having 2.7 fatalities for every 100,000 workers in 2012. Pennsylvania’s rate of workplace deaths is lower than the national average of 3.2 for every 100,000 workers in 2012.

These numbers are still preliminary rates reported by the BLS and may be adjusted but it is still good news to see workplace fatalities drop in Pennsylvania. The report did not cite any reasons that may have contributed to the decline in work deaths. Hopefully the decline means that workplaces are getting safer.

Even though work fatalities declined in 2012 in the state, workers and employers still need to be aware of workplace hazards and safety issues that could cause an accident. Workplace fatalities can happen in any type of workplace but it is important for each industry to track accidents and injuries to find solutions for these potentially fatal hazards.

Workers should never feel scared or ashamed of reporting a workplace injury or safety hazard as it could end up saving another worker’s life. Workers should report workplace accidents, injuries and safety hazards to their supervisors. They can also report workplace accidents and hazards to OSHA, especially if their workplace continues to violate safety laws and regulations that put workers’ lives at risk.

Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, “Pennsylvania work deaths decline,” Ann Belser, Jan. 16, 2014