Report Shows Increase in Worker Deaths

A new report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics is shedding light on an increase in worker deaths in 2022.

The 2022 Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries, released in December, showed that there were 5,486 worker deaths in 2022. 

That’s a 5.7% increase over 2021. It also equates to one worker death every 96 minutes.

Deaths were highest among transportation (1,620) and construction workers (1,056).

‘Sobering Reminder’

In a statement, U.S. Department of Labor assistant secretary for Occupational Safety and Health Doug Parker called the report “a sobering reminder of the important work we must do, especially for Black and Hispanic workers who saw the largest increase in workplace fatalities.”

The fatality rate increased 12.4% for Black workers and 10.4% for Hispanic workers.

“No worker should ever be disadvantaged because of their skin color or ethnicity; and that is never truer than when it comes to their lives and health,” said Parker.

“This is why the Department of Labor has expanded its efforts to protect those disproportionately at risk of injuries and illnesses on the job.”

‘Call to Action’

The BLS report also highlighted 13.1% increases in both work-related overdoses and suicides.

“They are another call to action for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, employers and other stakeholders to address these very serious issues,” said Parker. 

“Mental health must be part of overall worker safety and health. We are committed to supporting the mental health of all workers just as we are committed to protecting them from physical hazards on the job.

“Every worker death has profound impacts on family, friends, co-workers and communities. 

“That is why investing in worker safety and health must be a core value in every workplace across the country. All workers have a right to do their job without fear of being injured or sickened,” he said.