New CPWR Data Bulletin Reveals Alarming Rise in Fatal Construction Injuries: Insights from our New York Construction Accident Lawyers

The Center for Construction Research and Training (CPWR) recently released a crucial data bulletin, shedding light on the concerning trends in fatal injuries within the construction industry from 2011 to 2022. As Construction Accident Lawyers in New York, we must discuss these findings and emphasize the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and preventive strategies in our industry.

A Grim Overview of Construction Fatalities

According to the bulletin, the construction industry ranked among the top five for fatal injuries in 2022. Alarmingly, from 2021 to 2022, the number of fatal injuries in construction surged by 7.6%, with the rate of such injuries increasing by 2.2%. These statistics underscore the perilous nature of construction work and the critical need for robust safety protocols.

Leading Causes of Fatal Injuries

The report highlights that falls, slips, and trips were the leading causes of fatal injuries in 2022, accounting for 40% of all fatalities. The CPWR Fatality Map narratives revealed that terms like “fall” and “fell” were mentioned 3,884 times, indicating the prevalence of these incidents. Specifically, falls from, out of, or through buildings or structures (ICD-10: W13) were identified as the leading cause of death for construction workers.

Roofers were particularly at risk, with a staggering 57.5 fatal injuries per 100,000 full-time equivalent (FTE) workers, the highest rate among selected occupations. The Fatality Map also showed 1,550 mentions of roof-related terms, further emphasizing the dangers faced by these workers.

Other Significant Findings

Roadway incidents involving motorized land vehicles were the second most common cause of fatal injuries among construction workers, accounting for 13.9% of fatalities. In contrast, transportation incidents were the most common cause of fatal injuries across all industries, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

The National Safety Council reported that the construction industry had the highest number of preventable fatal injuries in 2022. These preventable injuries, which do not result from natural causes, highlight the potential for significant improvements in safety through effective planning and preventive measures.

The Path to Safer Construction Sites

As New York Construction Accident Lawyers, we strongly advocate for comprehensive safety planning and the use of available resources to protect workers. CPWR, OSHA, and NIOSH offer a range of hazard-specific resources and planning tools for contractors. These resources, particularly those focused on fall prevention and struck-by incidents, are invaluable for improving worker safety and health.

Effective planning should begin in the pre-construction phase and continue through each task, ensuring that all potential hazards are identified and mitigated. By leveraging these tools and committing to a culture of safety, we can reduce the incidence of fatal injuries and create safer working environments for all construction workers.

Our Commitment

At our personal injury law firm, we are dedicated to advocating for the rights and safety of construction workers. If you or a loved one has been affected by a construction accident, please contact our experienced New York Construction Accident Lawyers at 212.943.1090 for a free consultation. Together, we can work towards a safer future for the construction industry.