The Rapid Rise in Workplace Fatalities

In 2024, workplace fatalities continue to rise across the United States as the pursuit of profit eclipses the safety of workers. According to the latest data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), in 2022, a staggering 5,486 workers lost their lives in the course of their jobs. This is the most recent year for which this data is available, and it marks a 5.7 percent increase from the previous year. These alarming statistics underscore the disturbing trend that one worker is killed on the job in the United States every 96 minutes.

The BLS report highlights that the transportation and warehousing industries are sectors for which workplace deaths are most prevalent. Among the casualties are workers employed by corporate giants such as UPS, Amazon, and FedEx. The transportation sector stands out as one of the deadliest workplaces in America, with a staggering 2,066 fatalities accounting for over a third of the total annual deaths.

Profit should never take precedence over the safety and well-being of workers. In the pursuit of obtaining a greater profit, corners are often cut, safety protocols are neglected, and lives are endangered. This choice of priority presents dire consequences, and workers often pay the ultimate price for corporate negligence. Among the factors that assist in mitigating the risk of fatalities at work are the enforcement of workplace safety regulations, comprehensive training programs for employees and the promotion of a culture of safety.

If you or someone you love has suffered a workplace injury, call the law firm of Abraham Watkins today. We have successfully represented many individuals and families who have suffered injuries or the loss of a loved one due to accidents at their place of work. Call us today at 713-222-7211 or 1-800-870-9584 for a free consultation.