Serious Work Injuries And Fatalities Spike As Labor Shortages Exacerbate The Problem

While companies have made steady progress in reducing minor injuries and lost workdays, they are seeing less success in cutting down on serious injuries and fatalities, according to a new report.

Fewer workers died or suffered severe injuries in the workplace in 2020.

However, the rate of serious injuries and fatalities rose from 366 per 100,000 workers in 2019 to 429 per 100,000 workers in 2020, according to risk management software firm ISN.

The rate was 406 per 100,000 in 2018.

The problem could worsen as companies around the U.S. contend with a shortage of labor, which can translate into longer hours on the job by less-experienced workers, as well as a greater reliance on outside contractors.