Fatal Work Injuries in 2021 Up Almost Nine Percent from 2020

In 2021, 5,190 workers lost their lives compared to 4,764 in 2020.

The number of fatal injuries at work rose in 2021, up almost nine percent from 2020.

According to a news release, it was reported that 5,190 workers lost their lives on the job in 2021, compared to the 4,764 workers who lost their lives in 2020.

Although the number of fatal injuries in 2021 is lower than before the COVID-19 pandemic (5,333 in 2019), the fatal work injury rate in 2021 is the highest it’s been since 2016. Both years recorded a rate of 3.6 per 100,000 full-time equivalent (FTE) workers.

“Today’s announcement by the Bureau of Labor Statistics of a one-year increase of nearly 9 percent in fatal work injuries serves as call to action for OSHA, employers and other stakeholders to redouble our collective efforts to make our nation’s workplaces safer,” said Assistant Secretary for Occupational Safety and Health Doug Parker in a statement.

In 2020, Black or African American worker deaths comprised 11.4 percent, or 541 deaths, of the total number of lives lost. In 2021, the number increased to 12.6 percent, or 653 deaths, representing “an all-time high,” the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported.

Fatality rates for Black or African American workers and Hispanic or Latino workers were also higher than the overall rate in 2021. The rate for Black or African American workers was 4.0 per 100,000 FTE workers and the rate for Hispanic or Latino workers was 4.5 per 100,000 FTE workers. “These are deeply troubling facts,” Parker said.

“Each of these deaths cruelly impacts these workers’ families, friends, co-workers and communities. They are clear reminders of the important work that must be done. OSHA and its thousands of professionals across the nation are determined to enforce the law while working with employers, workers, labor unions, trade associations and other stakeholders to ensure that every worker in the U.S. ends their workday safely,” Parker continued.

Other notable people and organizations have commented on these newly released statistics, including President and CEO of the National Safety Council Lorraine Martin. “The data included in this report indicate workplaces have become less safe, and it is heartbreaking,” Martin said in a news release. “Everyone deserves the chance to live their fullest life. This report shows our mission to save lives, from the workplace to anyplace, is critical, and NSC is committed to doing its part to curb this deadly trend and put an end to preventable workplace fatalities.”

For an in-depth look at 2021 fatal injuries by characteristics, such as event, occupation and exposure, click here

About the Author

Alex Saurman is the Content Editor for Occupational Health & Safety.


Industrial Hygiene Product Showcase

  • Vaask

    Vaask

    Vaask (V-ahh-sk) is inspired by the Norwegian word for “wash” and embodies the desire for a more modern class of clean. The touchless hand sanitizing fixture provides a superior performance engineered for no drips, no mess. The laser sensor accurately dispenses sanitizer from the 2-liter sanitizer cartridge, refillable with any alcohol-based gel of your choice. Vaask can be customized to complement the design of any space and comes in three mounting options. 3

  • The MGC Simple Plus

    The MGC Simple Plus

    The MGC Simple Plus is a simple-to-use, portable multi gas detector that runs continuously for three years without needing to be recharged or routinely calibrated after its initial charge and calibration during manufacturing. The detector reliably tests a worksite’s atmosphere for hydrogen sulfide, carbon monoxide, oxygen and combustible gases (LEL). Additionally, it is durable enough to withstand the harshest treatment and environments, which is why it has an IP 68 rating. The MGC Simple Plus is also compatible with a variety of accessories, such as Gas Clip Technologies’ new GCT External Pump. Visit gascliptech.com for more information. 3

  • SECUMAX 350 SE

    SECUMAX 350 SE

    Efficient, ergonomic, and eco-friendly. Safety is about to get a whole lot greener with MARTOR's new safety knives made of recycled plastic coming soon! Contact us today for more information and to request a free sample. 3

Featured

Webinars