U.S. Sees Drop in Respiratory Illnesses for 2023

In 2020, the COVID pandemic caused a lot of drama in the United States. People were getting sick and dying at high rates. People were coming to work sick, spreading their illnesses to co-workers and customers.

The good news is that things are turning around. According to data recently released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, workers in private industry experienced fewer injuries and illnesses on the job in 2023 than in 2022. There was an 8.4% decrease in workplace injuries and illnesses, from 2.8 million to 2.6 million. The rate of nonfatal injuries also decreased from 2.3 per 100 full-time equivalent workers to 2.2.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics believed the driving force behind these decreases is the huge drop in illnesses. There was a 56.6% decrease in illnesses, as the number of cases reached its lowest level since 2019. There was a whopping 72.6% drop in respiratory illnesses.

Here’s a look at some other notable statistics:

• The total recordable rate decreased in numerous industries, including transportation and warehousing, health care and social assistance, retail trade, manufacturing, and construction.
• The total recordable rate in agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting and utilities went in the opposite direction and increased slightly.
• Injuries in food and beverage stores increased to 78,200. This was a 6.5% increase from 2022.

Preventing Workplace Illnesses

Reducing workplace illnesses is a key component of maintaining a healthy, productive environment. Here are some effective strategies:

• Promote hygiene and cleanliness. Regularly disinfect common areas, restrooms, shared equipment, and surfaces such as doorknobs and keyboards. Provide hand sanitizers at key locations like entrances, conference rooms, and common areas. Place signs near sinks and restrooms to remind employees of the importance of washing hands properly.
• Encourage vaccinations and health screenings. Offer flu vaccinations on-site and provide routine health screenings to help employees monitor their health.
• Improve indoor air quality. Ensure proper air circulation and use air purifiers to reduce airborne contaminants. Regularly service heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems to prevent the spread of airborne illnesses.
• Promote a culture of wellness. Encourage employees to stay home when they are sick to prevent spreading illnesses. Allow for remote work options, especially if employees have minor symptoms. Implement wellness programs focused on physical and mental health.
• Provide mental health support. Offer stress management resources and promote work-life balance. Ensure employees have reasonable workloads and encourage time off to avoid burnout.

Contact a New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer Today

COVID has caused a lot of sickness since 2020. It’s a good sign that respiratory illnesses are decreasing rapidly and things are returning to normal, to some degree.

If you have gotten sick or become injured in the workplace, seek legal help from a Morristown work-related accident attorney from The Law Offices of Michael P. Burakoff. We’ll work with you to help you understand your options for compensation. Schedule a consultation today by filling out the online form or calling (973) 455-1567.

Source:

safetyandhealthmagazine.com/articles/26127-bls-nonfatal-workplace-injuries-and-illnesses-decrease-in-2023#:~:text=The%20rate%20of%20nonfatal%20injuries,in%20respiratory%20illnesses%2C%20to%20100%2C200.