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Archived News Release--Caution:
information may be out of date.
For more information call: (202) 219-8211
Secretary of Labor Alexis M. Herman today issued the following
statement, commenting on the results of today's Bureau of Labor Statistics
(BLS) report on work-related injuries and illnesses in 1996. The report showed
a drop in the rate of injury and illness cases for the fourth year in a row.
"I am pleased to report this decrease in the rate of workplace injuries
and illnesses. Clearly, the work of the Department and the Occupational Safety
and Health Administration (OSHA) has had a significant and notable effect. We
are moving toward achieving my goal of ensuring safe and healthful workplaces
for all Americans.
"The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports an incidence rate of 7.4
injuries and illnesses per 100 full-time workers -- the lowest rate since BLS
began tracking this data in 1973. Across all sectors, in nearly every category,
there are fewer injuries and illnesses. These reductions are the result of many
factors, including employee training, employer commitment, the Department's
education and outreach initiatives, and OSHA's consultation services and
enforcement activities.
"At the same time, however, I must note that while this is good news, it
is not good enough. Millions of workers either lost work time or were placed on
restricted work activity, often while recuperating from injuries sustained on
the job. And although the overall number of illnesses associated with repeated
trauma such as carpal tunnel syndrome decreased, the percentage of those cases
increased over 1995.
"There is still work to be done, and I challenge every workplace to
redouble its efforts to improve the safety and health of its workforce. OSHA
stands ready as an equal partner with business and labor to meet this
challenge."
Archived News Release--Caution:
information may be out of date.
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