OSHA offers programs to prevent opioid abuse, suicide at work

The Bureau of Labor Statistics’ (BLS) “Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries Report” shows that while the rate of fatal work injuries remained unchanged in 2018, unintentional overdoses at work increased by 12%—the sixth consecutive annual increase. In response, OSHA has teamed with the National Safety Council on the release of a toolkit to help employers address opioid abuse in their workplaces and support workers in recovery.

Suicide at work also increased by 11% in 2018, and OSHA has created a new webpage with free and confidential resources to help identify the warning signs of suicide and to help users know who and how to call for help.

The report also shows a 14% decline in work-related fatal falls from heights, the lowest total since 2013. Enforcement efforts helped abate more than 7,000 fall-related hazards in the construction industry.

“OSHA will continue to use BLS data for enforcement targeting within its jurisdiction to help prevent tragedies,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Occupational Safety and Health Loren Sweatt. “Inspections for OSHA were up, and we will work with state plans so employers and workers can find compliance assistance tools in many forms or call the agency to report unsafe working conditions. Any fatality is one too many.”

OSHA offers a no-cost and confidential On-Site Consultation Program to help employers who need assistance meeting their safety obligations. In addition, OSHA Training Institute Education Centers provide training to workers, employers, and other safety professionals across the nation.