The most recent data from the Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses shows that workplaces in Minnesota are getting safer. According to the report, 2019 had the lowest rate of work-related nonfatal illnesses and injuries since recording began in 1973. In 2019, there were 3.2 nonfatal work-related injuries or illnesses per 100 full-time-equivalent, or FTE, workers.
Some industries still have work to do
While employers in Minnesota are doing well overall, there are still some industries that need to work harder on safety. For example, the construction industry in our state has an injury and illness rate of 4.8 cases for 100 FTE workers. The transportation and warehousing industries both have a rate of 4.4 while health care and social assistance are at 4.2. To compare, the national average is 3.0 nonfatal work-related injuries or illnesses per 100 FTE workers.
Most common types of injuries
Certain types of injuries are much more common than others, and this is true across all industries in Minnesota. The vast majority of work-related injuries that result in missed days of work are sprains, strains, and tears. Overexertion and bodily reaction are the most common injury event and account for 36% of all workplace accidents.
The following overexertion and bodily reactions are slips, trips, and falls, which account for 30% of all work-related accidents in the state. Contact with work equipment is the third leading cause of workplace injury. The most common sources of injuries that lead to workers’ compensation claims are unsafe floors and surfaces.
Workers may be compensated for their missed wages
Most workers who are injured on the job are entitled to file a workers’ compensation claim. Your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance may cover some of your lost wages and medical expenses.