OAKLAND, Calif., Sept. 18, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — The Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) today posted preliminary workplace fatality statistics for California in 2014. The Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries (CFOI) data reflect a total of 334 fatal work injuries statewide in 2014, a decrease of 16% from the 396 workplace deaths reflected in the final 2013 data. Deaths for Hispanic or Latino workers also decreased 35% from 194 in 2013 to 127 in 2014. Preliminary data for the United States show an increase of 2% from 4,585 in 2013 to 4,769 in 2014.
“The downward trend in workplace fatalities for Latinos and all workers in California is encouraging,” said DIR Director Christine Baker. “It is our hope that this trend continues, and that employers continue to provide their workers the training, equipment and safety measures to protect all workers in our state.”
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Key findings of the preliminary 2014 CFOI in California:
- The total number of workplace fatalities are the lowest reported since 2010, and remain below the pre-2008 recession average.
- Over one third (35%) of all California workplace deaths identified in 2014 occurred in transportation incidents. Traffic accidents that occur on public roads are under the jurisdiction of the California Highway Patrol.
- One in five (22%) of all California workplace deaths identified in 2014 were attributed to violent acts and 21% due to trips, slips and falls.
- Fatal workplace injuries among Latino workers represent 38% of all cases identified in 2014, compared to 49% counted in final data the year before.
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In April, DIR published a report examining fatal occupational injury trends among Latinos from 2009 – 2013. The report made recommendations for specialized, language-appropriate training for workers prior to performing hazardous work.
“These preliminary statistics on California workplace fatalities provide us with valuable information to protect workers. With evidence and data, we continually refine and strengthen workplace safety and health regulations, training materials, and outreach and education efforts for employers and workers,” said Cal/OSHA Chief Juliann Sum. Cal/OSHA is a division in DIR.
Tables and charts reflecting preliminary data for 2014 (and prior years’ final data) for California are posted online. Preliminary numbers for 2014 reflect available statistics at time of this publication. Changes and additions to the preliminary 2014 California CFOI counts are expected and could result from the identification of new cases and the revision of existing cases based on source documents received after the release of preliminary results. Final 2014 CFOI data will be released in the late spring of 2016.
The Census is conducted annually by DIR in conjunction with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. CFOI produces comprehensive, accurate and timely counts of fatal work injuries. This Federal-State cooperative program was implemented in all 50 states and the District of Columbia in 1992.
DIR protects and improves the health, safety and economic well-being of over 18 million wage earners, and helps their employers comply with state labor laws. Its Division of Occupational Safety and Health, commonly known as Cal/OSHA, helps protect workers from health and safety hazards on the job in almost every workplace in California. Cal/OSHA does not have authority when injuries occur on public roadways. Cal/OSHA’s Consultation Services Branch provides free and voluntary assistance to employers and employee organizations to improve their health and safety programs. Employers should call (800) 963-9424 for assistance from Cal/OSHA Consultation Services.
Employees with work-related questions or complaints may contact DIR’s Call Center in English or Spanish at 844-LABOR-DIR (844-522-6734). The California Workers’ Information line at 866-924-9757 provides recorded information in English and Spanish on a variety of work-related topics. Complaints can also be filed confidentially with Cal/OSHA district offices.
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The California Department of Industrial Relations, established in 1927, protects and improves the health, safety, and economic well-being of over 18 million wage earners, and helps their employers comply with state labor laws. DIR is housed within the Labor & Workforce Development Agency. For general inquiries, contact DIR’s Communications Call Center at 844-LABOR-DIR (844-522-6734) for help in locating the appropriate division or program in our department.
