Workers with Disabilities at Greater Risk for Work Accidents
A new report from the Center for Injury Research and Policy finds that workers with disabilities are at a much greater risk for workplace injuries than those without disabilities. The findings are worth noting on all job sites, regardless of how many people with disabilities they employ or the nature of their disabilities.
According to EHS Today:
Annually, the occupational injury rate for disabled U.S. workers is 6.0 per 100 workers, compared to 2.3 per 100 non-disabled employees. Rates of non-occupational injuries were 10 times higher for disabled workers – 16.4 per 100 disabled workers compared to 6.4 for employees without disabilities.
“The increase in occupational injuries to workers with disabilities found in our study shows the need for better accommodation and safety programs in the workplace and the need for a safer working environment,” said the study’s co-author Huiyun Xiang, M.D., Ph.D., MPH, principal investigator in the Center for Injury Research and Policy and an associate professor of the Division of Epidemiology at The Ohio State University College of Public Health.
Falls and transportation-related injuries led the causes of injury among disabled workers in the United States. This finding, according to researchers, suggests that improving the safety of the working environment will help not only to reduce the occurrence of fall- and transportation-related injuries among workers with disabilities, but also would benefit those without disabilities.
While those without disabilities may think the research does not apply to their worksites, the reality is that there are many types of disabilities and not all are visible. Someone with a hearing problem, for instance, is working with a disability and is therefore at greater risk of injury.
By making accommodations and ensuring a safe work environment for workers with disabilities, employers can reduce injuries for everyone on a job site.
Falls account for the majority of construction work injuries, which is a reason the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration launched a fall prevention campaign this year. By keeping ahead of the research and anticipating potential risks, employers can provide a safer environment and reduce accidents overall.
New Jersey Construction Accident Lawyers Can Help
The New Jersey construction accident attorneys with Ginarte know the risks involved in construction work and understand that workers face danger every day on the job. If you are involved in a construction accident, we are here to tirelessly work in your interest.
If you’ve been injured in a New Jersey construction accident, call us today to discuss the details and how we might be able to help. Our attorneys can be reached for a free consultation at 888-GINARTE.
