Study Finds Massachusetts Has Biggest Increase in Fatal Workplace Injuries

A new study conducted by personal injury law firm John Foy & Associates has found Massachusetts to have highest increase in fatal workplace injuries in the United States over the last 10 years.

The analysis looked at the number of workplace injuries between 2012 and 2021 as reported by the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to calculate the percentage of increase or decrease in each state. Cases of fatal workplace injuries in Massachusetts rose 107% during that time. It was the only state to have fatal injuries more than double over the last decade, despite recording fewer fatalities than any other state in 2012.

Missouri ranked as the state with the second-highest increase in workplace injuries over the last decade, with workplace injuries increasing by almost two-thirds (64%). Georgia followed in third place, with workplace fatalities increasing by 60% over the last decade. The state went from a rate of 2.5 fatal workplace injuries in 2012 to 4 in 2021.

At the other end of the spectrum, Iowa had the biggest percentage decrease in fatal workplace injuries (50%). North Dakota similarly saw a significant decline in fatal workplace injuries, with a decrease of 49%. In third was Rhode Island with a percentage decrease of 41%. Rhode Island also recorded the lowest fatal injury rate across all states in 2021.

“The BLS data is positive news for some states but not for others. For the states that have witnessed a significant increase in fatal workplace injuries, it’s important to address why this has occurred and consider strengthening workplace safety guidelines to mitigate risk,” said the law firm’s attorney John Foy. “Employers must ensure safety policies are up to date, risk assessments are performed, and full training is provided to employees. Taking these measures can not only prevent avoidable injuries from occurring, but also lessen the frequency, severity, and impact of those that do.”