Work accident death rate declined in North Carolina in 2013

Many hazards can pose a risk to a worker’s safety on a job site in North Carolina. Situations such as slips and falls or even a work accident with machinery can lead to serious injuries and even death. According to recent research, the number of work-related deaths in the state actually declined last year, which is surely encouraging news for many North Carolina employees.

The number of fatalities decreased by a whopping 39 percent, according to the North Carolina Department of Labor. The average age of those who died last year was 44 years old. However, the drop in the number of deaths may show that North Carolina employers are becoming more aware of the importance of safety and health in the workplace.

The most common fatalities in 2013 included falls from high places or being caught between or inside objects. Electrocution and the inhalation of toxic fumes also contributed to on-the-job deaths. North Carolina’s rate of illness and injury also achieved a low in 2012 of just under three people per 100 full-time employees. The national average is above three.

No matter how hard companies strive to reduce instances of injuries, illnesses and death in the workplace, some employees still end up becoming injured at work in North Carolina. These injuries can result in a loss of wages as well as in medical costs, which is why workers’ compensation is so important. Employers are required to purchase this insurance for their workers. If a person has been injured on the job as a result of a work accident, he or she can rightfully strive to maximize the workers’ compensation benefits that he or she seeks.

Source: mcdowellnews.com, Workplace deaths decline across state, No author, Jan. 20, 2014