Written By: Mike Martin
In the construction industry, the stakes for safety are not just high—they’re monumental. Recent data – including construction fatality rates – from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the U.S. Department of Labor sheds light on a concerning trend: In 2021, construction-related deaths due to slips, trips, and falls increased by 5.9%, signaling an urgent need for improved safety measures in the industry. What’s more, the year 2022 saw a 5.7% rise in the total number of fatal work injuries compared to the previous year, along with a 7.5% increase in reported injury and illness cases to 2.8 million.
These numbers demand your attention.
The Construction Sector Has the Second-Highest Fatality Rate
The construction sector is well-known for its inherent risks, and in 2022 it witnessed the second-highest number of fatalities (1,056) among occupation groups. A significant 40% of these fatalities were caused by slips, trips, or falls. The fatality rate for this occupation group also increased from 12.3 deaths per 100,000 FTE workers in 2021 to 13.0 in 2022. These statistics underscore that safety should always be at the forefront of our minds.
Each Fatality Can Cost You More Than $1.3 Million
Facing a workplace fatality in construction can cost a company more than $1.3 million, factoring in legal, medical, and indirect costs. This means your company must think beyond just simple regulatory compliance. An investment in safety is also a way to preserve a company’s financial wellbeing, avoiding the massive cost that comes from having an unsafe working environment.
Even Non-Fatal Injuries Carry Large Expenses
The consequences go beyond immediate financial losses. The 195,600 non-fatal injuries in the construction sector resulted in lost workdays, decreased productivity, and increased medical costs. The National Safety Council estimates that work injuries cost the construction industry over $13 billion annually, covering medical expenses, lost productivity, and other related costs.
Neglecting Safety Spurs Legal, Reputational, Retention Issues, and Costs
Neglecting safety measures can lead to legal trouble, harm a company’s reputation, and affect employee morale and retention. Non-compliance with regulations results in fines and lawsuits, while accidents in construction can cause delays, increased costs, and damage to the company’s image, leading to higher insurance premiums. Prioritizing safety is essential, not just for compliance but as a strategic business decision.
Take Action: Prioritize Safety
A focus on safety is of critical importance and it’s time to take action. Prioritize safety in your projects, invest in training and preventive measures, and create a culture where safety is not just a priority but a core value. Your decisions today can protect lives, preserve your financial well-being, and ensure the future of your company. Let’s make safety our shared mission, contact us.
