2021 Fatal Work Injury Data

image010

The Bureau of Labor Statistics recently announced the latest fatal work injury data for 2021. Notable updates include:

  • There were 5,190 fatal work injuries recorded in the United States in 2021, an 8.9% increase from 4,764 in 2020
  • The fatal work injury rate was 3.6 fatalities per 100,000 full-time equivalent (FTE) workers, up from 3.4 per 100,000 FTE in 2020 and up from the 2019 pre-pandemic rate of 3.5
  • A worker died every 101 minutes from a work-related injury in 2021
  • Work-related fatalities due to falls, slips, and trips increased 5.6% in 2021, from 805 fatalities in 2020 to 850 in 2021
  • Exposure to harmful substances or environments led to 798 worker fatalities in 2021, the highest figure since the series began in 2011

You can view the news release by clicking here. You can view the BLS’s Injuries, Illnesses, and Fatalities page by clicking here.

View BLS’s Injuries, Illnesses, and Fatalities Page

Related Posts

What are your safety goals in 2026?

What are your safety goals in 2026?

03.05.2026 Safety Culture
As we look ahead to 2026, safety leaders across the country are setting priorities that will shape the year to…
Read More
From Deregulation to DIY Safety

From Deregulation to DIY Safety

03.05.2026 Current Events
Why Smart Safety Leaders Are Investing in Training Now The past five years have reshaped the U.S. workplace safety landscape…
Read More
Lithium-Ion Batteries: The Hidden Workplace Fire Risk (and What to Do About It)

Lithium-Ion Batteries: The Hidden Workplace Fire Risk (and What to Do About It)

03.05.2026 Compliance
Lithium-ion batteries quietly power more of your workplace than ever—cordless tools, radios, laptops, cleaning equipment, e-bikes and scooters, material-handling equipment,…
Read More
cta1-img

See our available Live and online cOURSES