New workplace fatality data released

Commenting on workplace fatality data released Sept. 22, U.S. Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health John Henshaw said, "American workers remain safer than they were just a few years ago. The latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows that the fatal injury rate held steady at 4.0 per 100,000 workers—identical to 2002 and the lowest rate recorded since the fatality census began in 1992.

"We also are encouraged by our continued progress in reducing fatalities among Hispanic workers. Fatalities among Hispanic workers dropped notably for the second straight year, after several years of increases. Fatalities among foreign-born Hispanics also dropped for the first time ever. There were fewer deaths from falls and harmful environments, while deaths as a result of assaults and violent acts rose by 61.

"We have said many times before that even one workplace fatality is one too many, and we will continue to do everything we can to make sure workers are safe through strong, fair, and effective enforcement; outreach, education, and compliance assistance; and partnerships and cooperative programs."