LA Workforce Comission Reports Rate Of Work-Related Injuries, Fatalities Drops

Louisiana ranked fourth in the nation, tied with New York and Texas in the 2010 Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses. The survey found non-fatal work-related injuries and illnesses in Louisiana dropped to 2.7 per 100 full-time workers, down from 2.8 the prior year, and remains below the national rate of 3.5.

“Businesses that cultivate a workplace culture of safety in Louisiana help to protect their workers, reduce risks and maximize productivity” said LWC Executive Director Curt Eysink. “Workplace safety plays a big part in lowering costs related to workers' compensations claims, which translates into lower premiums for Louisiana employers.”

Of the estimated 11,400 cases requiring days away from work in 2010, a third were due to sprains and strains of the shoulder, chest, back, abdomen and pelvis. The most common source associated with work-related accidents were floors, walkways and ground surfaces, accounting for one in five accidents.

“The agency has stepped up its activities to engage employers statewide with information on workplace safety and health inspections, training seminars and assistance in an effort to help keep workers safe,” added Eysink.

Preliminary 2010 Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries data shows the number of work-related fatalities in Louisiana dropped to 104, compared to the 2009 revised total of 140 deaths. Industries reporting the most fatalities included trade, transportation and utilities, 32; followed by natural resources and mining, 22; and construction with 16.

The agency's Office of Workers' Compensation collects the data in partnership with the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Additional state and national data is available at the BLS website's Injuries, Illnesses and Fatalities section at www.bls.gov/iif.

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