Fatality Rate Higher Among Older Workers – St. Louis Workplace Accident Lawyer

Workplace injuries are an unfortunate reality that many American workers face.

Every day, hundreds of workplace injuries occur across the nation. While many of these injuries are minor and require nothing more than first aid, some injuries require a long hospital stay and prolonged medical treatment. All types of workers are at risk for workplace injuries. Certain types of workers are at a higher risk for work-related accidents and fatalities, such as construction and manufacturing workers. In addition, older workers face a higher rate of workplace fatalities.

An Aging Workforce

Popular demographics indicate that the American population is aging. Work-related injury and fatality data from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health shows a corresponding increase in deaths among older workers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, for every 100,000 workers, 10.2 workers aged 64 years and older, died because of workplace injuries. The fatality rate among the entire workforce in the same period was 3.3 deaths per 100,000 workers. In 2014, 656 people aged 65 and above died on the job.

Maintaining Safe Working Conditions

Members of the baby boom generation are more likely to remain employed after the age of 55 compared to their predecessors. It is estimated that by 2022, almost 25 percent of the entire workforce will be 55 years or older. This increase in workplace fatalities among older workers is alarming and it is important for employers to implement safety training for these workers. Workplace hazards vary greatly by industry and employer. It is the responsibility of every employer to maintain safe working conditions. Employers are required to follow OSHA guidelines or they may face heavy penalties.

Missouri Workers’ Compensation

When someone gets injured on the job, the workers’ compensation system is in place to protect his or her rights. Workers’ compensation benefits include medical and wage loss benefits for injured workers. Workers’ compensation is an alternative to litigation and the worker gives up the right to litigation. However, an injured worker qualifies for benefits regardless of fault.

Work Related Injuries