According to a report released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, workplace fatalities in the Pittsburgh area dropped from 29 in 2013 to 18 in 2014. This is the lowest number since 2003, the year that the Bureau of Labor began collecting data for the area. This report represents a significant improvement in Pittsburgh workplace safety. The numbers are also in contrast to a nationwide two-percent increase in workplace deaths from 4,585 in 2013 to 4,679 in 2014.
It appears that male workers make up the majority of workplace deaths, about nine out of 10. Also, most workplace fatalities were recorded in older men between the ages of 45 and 64. This probably reflects the greater proportion of males working in more dangerous industries and the fact that older workers are less likely to survive a workplace accident.
This sharp drop in deaths is especially impressive considering Pittsburgh's industrial heritage. The report further noted that construction, transportation and warehousing each reported four deaths in 2013, making them among the most dangerous industries in which to engage. This probably reflects the frequent use of heavy equipment and other potential dangers inherent in certain male-dominated work environments.
This report shows that workplace dangers have been reduced but not eliminated. Keep a watchful eye, especially if you work in construction, mining or any other industrial environment. If you were injured on the job, then you may want to consult with a workers' compensation attorney.
Great strides have been made in improving worker safety, but there is still a long way to go before workplace deaths are eliminated. Safety should be the number one concern, above profit and efficiency.
Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, "Pittsburg workplace fatalities decrease in 2014," Daniel Moore, Jan. 21, 2016
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