33 Georgians were killed in workplace accidents last year, marking nearly a 50 percent decline in workplace accident related fatalities over the past five years.
According to a report released on Monday by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), 33 Georgians were killed in workplace accidents last year. This marks a 23 percent decline from the number of workplace accident related deaths reported within the State the year before. In addition, it represents a 48 percent drop in workplace accident related deaths over the past five years. OSHA officials note that a 2008 explosion at the Imperial Sugar Plant near Savannah, Georgia which killed 14 skewed these statistics. However, even when discounting the deaths caused by the Imperial Sugar Plant, Georgia has experienced a 34 percent decline in workplace accident related deaths over the past five years.
The majority of workplace accident related deaths were caused by individuals being struck by vehicles or other objects.
The majority of workplace accident related deaths reported this year were caused by the victim being struck by either a vehicle or an object. The second most common cause of workplace accident related deaths were falls. Over the past five years, fatal workplace accidents caused by an individual being struck by either a vehicle or an object were reduced by 54 percent and those caused by falls were reduced by 50 percent. Electrocution, chemical exposure, and burns also caused some of the workplace accident related fatalities reported this year.
Several factors contribute to the decline in workplace accident related fatalities.
OSHA officials attribute the reduction in workplace accident related fatalities to a number of efforts they have spearheaded over the past several years.
In addition, Georgia’s branch of the Association of General Contractors has sought to reduce the number of workplace accident related fatalities. Every year, the organization offers over 100 classroom based safety course, as well as 300 worksite-based classes. However, the organization notes that safety is everyone’s responsibility, not just that of employers and employees. This is particularly true when it comes to highway contractors. While training may encourage workers to strap on safety mechanisms that will catch them in case of a fall, highway contactors are still at risk of being involved in automobile accidents if other travelers fail to exercise caution.
Furthermore, some companies are utilizing technology to enhance their workplace safety.
For instance, a number of companies are using tools to improve training and to monitor employees’ adherence to safety guidelines.
However, another factor that may have contributed to the decline in workplace related accidents is the economic decline experienced over the past several years. With fewer people at work, fewer workplace accidents are likely to occur.
If your loved one has been killed in a workplace related accident, you should contact an attorney immediately. An attorney can review the circumstances of your loved one’s death and determine whether their employer or another party was liable for the accident. If so, the attorney can help you receive the compensation you deserve for your loss.