2005 Workplace Injury and Illness Rates Lowest on Record
By Masonry
The rate of workplace injuries and illnesses in the private industry declined in 2005 for the third consecutive year, the Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported on Oct 19. The BLS Workplace Injuries and Illnesses in 2005 report noted that nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses declined from the previous year — to 4.6 cases per 100 workers in 2005, compared to 4.8 cases in 2004. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao issued the following statement about the report:
"The announcement that workplace injuries and illnesses in 2005 were at an all-time low is more good news for America's workers and reflects the department's effective worker health and safety strategy:
1) compliance assistance; 2) health and safety partnerships with labor, and; 3) targeted, aggressive enforcement against bad actors.
"As encouraging as the report is, there is more to do and the department is working hard to make workplaces even safer and healthier for America's workers."
A PDF of the report can be viewed online at www.bls.gov/iif/oshwc/osh/os/osnr0025.pdf.
About the Author
Masonry, the official publication of the Mason Contractors Association of America, covers every aspect of the mason contractor profession - equipment and techniques, building codes and standards, business planning, promoting your business, legal issues and more. Read or subscribe to Masonry magazine at www.masonrymagazine.com.
