Annual Probability of Workplace Injury

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported approximately 2.7 million non-fatal workplace injuries and illnesses in the US private sector in 2022, a rate of 2.7 per 100 full-time equivalent workers. This rate has declined significantly from about 8.4 per 100 workers in the early 1990s, reflecting improved workplace safety practices and regulations.

The industries with the highest injury rates include agriculture, forestry, and fishing (5.3 per 100), transportation and warehousing (4.8), healthcare and social assistance (4.5), and manufacturing (3.3). The most common types of workplace injuries are sprains, strains, and tears (about 33% of cases), soreness and pain (about 12%), cuts and lacerations (about 9%), and fractures (about 6%).

The total cost of workplace injuries exceeds $170 billion per year, including medical costs, wage losses, and productivity losses. About 5,190 workers were fatally injured in 2021 (about 3.6 per 100,000 full-time workers). OSHA regulations, safety training, personal protective equipment, and employer safety programs have been the primary drivers of the long-term decline in workplace injuries. However, emerging risks from the gig economy, automation, and remote work present new safety challenges.