Assistant Secretary of Labor Dr. David Michaels encouraged by BLS report on occupational injuries and illnesses in 2015

Words: Dave AfandadorOccupational injury and illness data released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics showed a significant drop in the rate of recordable workplace injuries and illnesses in 2015, continuing a pattern of decline that, apart from 2012, has occurred annually for the last 13 years.

Private industry employers reported about 2.9 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses in 2015, representing a decline of about 48,000 from 2014, despite an increase in total hours worked. The rate of cases recorded was 3.0 cases per 100 full-time workers — down from 3.2 in 2014. The rate is the lowest recorded since at least 2002, when OSHA recordkeeping requirements were modified.

Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health issued the following statement:

“We are encouraged to see the significant decline in worker injury and illness rates. This is the result of the relentless efforts of employers, unions, worker advocates, occupational safety and health professionals, and federal and state government agencies ensuring that worker safety and health remains a top priority every day.”

“Despite the decline, approximately 2.9 million private sector workers suffered nonfatal injuries and illnesses last year. That is still far too many. At OSHA, we will continue to do all that we can to continue driving the rate down.”
About: Safety Featured
 0
STABILA Tools: Engineered for Professionals Worldwide
June 2025

With a history spanning over 100 years, STABILA has firmly established itself as a trusted name in precision and durability. Known for crafting tools that stand the test of time, STABILA has become the standard for long-lasting performance. Today, the bra

Elsa Bueno
Featured MAP Partner
Read More
Check out CrewTracks' Latest Innovations
June 2025

In today's masonry industry, the right tools are essential for efficient operations. At CrewTracks, we're constantly innovating to provide masonry contractors with the solutions they need to thrive. We're excited to offer a sneak peek at some of our newes

Erin Laird
Featured MAP Partner
Read More
The Importance of Durable Safety Footwear on Masonry Jobsites
June 2025

Masonry work is a rewarding trade that relies on precision, strength, and skill. However, it also comes with its share of risks. From handling heavy materials like bricks and concrete blocks to navigating rough, uneven surfaces, masonry jobsites present n

Andrew Moffatt
Featured MAP Partner
Read More
OSHA’s Proposed Heat Stress Standard
June 2025

The goal of OSHA is to work tirelessly to keep us, the workers, as safe as possible as we go about our jobs every day. According to the statistics that the Bureau of Labor Statistics provides, a staggering 479 workers died from heat stress from 2011-202

Justus Everett
Featured
Read More