The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has reported a decline in workplace death investigations, highlighting the impact of targeted enforcement and collaboration with industry partners. In fiscal year (FY) 2024, OSHA investigated 826 worker fatalities, an 11% decrease from 928 in FY 2023. Excluding COVID-related deaths, this represents the lowest number of workplace fatalities investigated by OSHA since FY 2017.
Targeted Efforts Yield Results
Fewer Fatal Falls
Fatal falls, a leading cause of worker deaths in the construction industry, decreased by nearly 20% in FY 2024. Federal OSHA investigated 189 fatal falls compared to 234 the previous year. State OSHA programs also reported significant decreases, with preliminary data indicating a more than 15% reduction.
Dramatic Decline in Trench Collapse Fatalities
Worker deaths due to trench collapses have dropped nearly 70% since 2022. OSHA investigated just 12 trench collapse fatalities in 2024, down from 15 in 2023 and 39 in 2022. These improvements are a result of OSHA’s “intensive outreach and education” initiatives, collaboration with industry partners, efforts by State Plan programs, and a strict enforcement strategy based on a “zero tolerance” policy for unprotected trenches. This includes immediate inspections and referrals for criminal prosecution when appropriate.
OSHA Leadership Responds
“These numbers are promising evidence that stronger enforcement and collaboration with labor and management, driven by the Biden-Harris administration’s worker-centered approach, is saving lives,” said Assistant Secretary for Occupational Safety and Health Douglas Parker.
“Most striking is the improvement in areas we have focused on with employers and unions. Our state program partners have also seen improvements,” Parker continued.
Despite the progress, Parker emphasized the need for continued vigilance. “While fewer workers have died from the hazards OSHA investigates, we still lose more than 5,000 workers each year in largely preventable incidents. While we’re proud of this progress, our work is far from over. Reducing worker deaths means embracing an approach that makes worker health and safety a core value in every workplace.”
Visit OSHA’s website to learn more about its emphasis programs and how to prevent falls and trench collapses.
Ready to elevate your workforce’s health? Partner with NMS Health for your occupational health screenings and vaccinations. With NMS Health, you are not just identifying and preventing future illness; you’re investing in a safer, healthier future for your team. Get started today!
