Oct. 29, 2015

Statement from Assistant Secretary of Labor Dr. David Michaels
on BLS report on occupational injuries and illnesses in 2014

WASHINGTON — Results from the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses released today show that private industry employers reported nearly 3 million non-fatal workplace injuries and illnesses in 2014. While the total recordable cases incidence rate fell 0.1 cases per 100 full-time workers, the rates for cases involving days away from work and for cases of job transfer or restriction only were unchanged.

After reviewing the report, Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health Dr. David Michaels issued the following statement:

"Today's Bureau of Labor Statistics report shows that too many workers are still being injured or sickened on the job. Every year, millions of workers are injured at work and that is simply unacceptable. We must redouble our efforts to make sure that employers provide workers with the protections and training they deserve.

"Workplace injuries and illnesses have a devastating effect on workers, their families, and the businesses where they occur. These injuries and illnesses contribute to the pressing issue of income inequality: they force working families out of the middle class and into poverty, and keep the families of lower-wage workers from entering the middle class and achieving the American Dream.

"Everyone benefits when there are fewer injuries and illnesses. OSHA is committed to continue increased efforts to ensure every employer is fulfilling its responsibility to protect the safety and health of its workers."

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Media Contacts:

Carrie Thomas, 202-693-4667, thomas.carrie.a@dol.gov
Amanda McClure, 202-693-4672, mcclure.amanda.c@dol.gov

Release Number: 15-2134-NAT

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