MMWR: Nonfatal Occupational Injuries and Illnesses

The April 27, 2007 issue of the CDC's MMWR, reports on a study involving nonfatal occupational injuries. The data for the report was collected through a National Electronic Injury Surveillance System occupational supplement (NEISS-Work), which provides information on persons treated for nonfatal work-related injuries and illnesses in U.S. hospital emergency departments (EDs).

The report found that in 2004, an estimated 3.4 million nonfatal ED-treated injuries and illnesses occurred among workers of all ages. Workers aged <25 years had the highest injury/illness rates. More than three fourths of all nonfatal workplace injuries/illnesses were attributed to contact with objects or equipment (e.g., being struck by a falling tool or caught in machinery), bodily reaction or exertion (e.g., a sprain or strain), and falls. There were no significant differences in the number and rate of nonfatal injuries/illnesses for 2004 as compared to previous years (2003, 1998, 1996).

The report suggests that to reduce occupational injuries/illnesses, interventions should continue to target workers at highest risk and reduce exposure to those workplace hazards with the greatest potential for causing severe injury or death. More emphasis should be placed on prevention-effectiveness studies and dissemination of successful interventions to reduce work-related injuries and illnesses.

To read the full report, click here