Workplace Injury Rate Dips to New Low
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowThe Indiana Department of Labor says the nonfatal injury and illness rate has hit an all-time low. The annual report indicates a five percent decline from 2012 to 2013. December 8, 2014
News Release
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – Today, the Indiana Department of Labor (IDOL) released its annual nonfatal workplace injury and illness report for 2013. For the second consecutive year, Indiana's overall nonfatal workplace injury and illness rate has reached a historic low. Indiana's nonfatal occupational injury and illness rate is 3.8 injuries or illnesses per 100 full-time workers.
“Two consecutive years of historically low workplace injuries and illnesses proves that we are taking the necessary steps to make sure Hoosiers across the state are safe at work,” said Governor Mike Pence. “I applaud the Indiana Department of Labor for their commitment and focus on employer and employee safety so we can continue to raise the bar on workplace wellbeing.”
This is the lowest recorded rate since the Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses began in 1992. The 2013 rate represents a five percent decline from the 2012 rate of 4.0 – the lowest rate previously on record. The most significant improvement among the major Hoosier industries was in the state’s agriculture industry (3.6 per 100 full-time workers in 2013 compared to 7.2 per 100 in 2012). The agriculture industry experienced a 50 percent decline in non-fatal worker injuries and illnesses from 2012.
“Here in Indiana, we are seeing a culture shift with managers and employees actively taking ownership of their workplace safety and health programs,” said Indiana Department of Labor Commissioner Rick J. Ruble. “The Indiana Department of Labor remains committed to continuing the progress we see today in the years to come.”
Some findings in the 2013 report include:
-The overall state non-fatal injury and illness rate for 2013 is 3.8 injuries or illnesses per 100 full-time workers, the lowest rate since the SOII report was introduced in its current form in 1992. The 2013 rate represents a one-year decline of five percent from the 2012 rate.
-The agriculture industry experienced the greatest one-year decline in non-fatal worker injuries and illnesses, 50 percent.
-Eleven of eighteen major Indiana industry categories experienced a reduction in non-fatal worker injuries and illnesses in 2013.
For more information about the SOII, please visit: http://www.in.gov/dol/2341.htm.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses
About the Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses (SOII) Data:
The Bureau of Labor Statistics’ (BLS) Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses data for Indiana includes non-fatal work-related injuries and illnesses. On an annual basis, the Indiana Department of Labor’s QMS Division staff work with many Hoosier employers to obtain information on non-fatal occupational injuries and illnesses. SOII began tracking the data in 1991.
About the Indiana Department of Labor
The mission of the Indiana Department of Labor is to advance the safety, health and prosperity of Hoosiers in the workplace. In order to make significant strides, we emphasize both enforcement and compliance assistance by employers. www.in.gov/dol
Source: The Office of Governor Mike Pence