Why Businesses Need a Health and Safety Program
Businesses need a health and safety program based on OSHA statistics that highlight the significant impact workplace injuries and illnesses have on organizations. According to OSHA, U.S. businesses spend approximately $170 billion annually on costs related to workplace injuries and illnesses. These costs include medical expenses, workers’ compensation claims, lost productivity, and legal fees, underscoring the financial burden businesses face without a solid safety program in place.
Common Workplace Injury Statistics
Here are some key workplace injury statistics based on data from OSHA and other reputable sources:
1
General Workplace Injuries
- In 2022, there were approximately 2.6 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses reported by private industry employers in the U.S. (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
- The total direct costs of workplace injuries in the U.S. are estimated to be $170 billion annually (National Safety Council).
2
Leading Causes of Workplace Injuries
According to OSHA, the “big four” causes of workplace injuries are:
- Overexertion and bodily reaction: 33% of injuries.
- Slips, trips, and falls: 25% of injuries.
- Contact with objects and equipment: 20% of injuries.
- Transportation incidents: 12% of injuries.
3
Cost of Workplace Injuries
- The average cost per worker injury in the U.S. is estimated to be $42,000, including medical treatment, lost wages, and associated expenses (National Safety Council).
- Injuries leading to lost workdays result in an average of $1,100 in direct costs per employee, with more severe injuries costing significantly more.
4
Injuries by Type
- Musculoskeletal injuries (MSDs) account for about 30% of all workplace injuries, often resulting from repetitive motions, lifting, or awkward postures (NIOSH).
- Slips, trips, and falls are the second leading cause, responsible for about 25% of all reported workplace injuries (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
The Importance of a Health and Safety Program
These statistics highlight the importance of a robust health and safety program to:
- Mitigate risks and prevent injuries.
- Protect employees and businesses from financial and operational consequences.
- Improve workplace morale and productivity.
- Support compliance with safety regulations.
A well-designed safety program can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of workplace injuries while enhancing overall business efficiency