New York City Occupational Deaths Increase Sharply

Federal records for the 2017 calendar year showed a significant increase in on-the-job deaths among New York City workers. No specific explanation has been given to explain why the number jumped to 87 occupational fatalities from the all-time low of 56 in 2016. However, city officials are attempting to use better tracking and are considering additional training requirements to make each workplace as safe as possible.

Total work-related deaths in the five boroughs in 2017 were the highest since 2008. The incidents that accounted for the most fatalities were:

• Slips, trips and falls — More than one-third of occupational fatalities resulted from slips, trips and falls. A slight misstep can be particularly dangerous for a construction worker, who might be doing his job at a great height or near heavy equipment.
• Animal attacks — Pet store workers, delivery people, letter carriers, veterinarians and animal handlers come into contact with animals as part of their daily routine. No matter how much training occurs, there is always some unpredictability.
• Workplace violence — Violent incidents such as robberies and other crimes have fatal consequences. In these situations, inadequate security or poor hiring practices might be to blame.

Fatal on-the-job vehicle accidents in New York City are comparatively rarer than in the rest of the United States, where they are the biggest cause of worker deaths. If a family member has been killed on the job or you’ve been hurt in the course of your employment, it’s best to retain a lawyer who has won major occupational injury cases and is familiar with local courts.

Barasch McGarry Salzman & Penson provides strong advice and advocacy to New Yorkers who have been hurt while working on construction sites and at other types of jobs. To schedule a free consultation with a determined workplace accident lawyer, call us at [ln::phone] or contact us online.