MIOSHA has reported 9 fatalities that have occurred in 2016 so far, 7 of them were from a “fall”. That would equate to approximately one fatality per month. I know we are a good sized state, but I think that is a high number, particularly in this day and age when we are so much more aware, informed and safety conscious.

MIOSHA reported 29 fatalities for the year 2015. That would equate to more than two per month. In looking at the statistics provided by MIOSHA, age does not appear to be a factor, nor does industry. Of the 29 cases reported, 7 cases involved the employee being “struck by” something, 11 cases involved the employee being “crushed” by something, 6 cases involved the employee “falling” and 3 cases involved inhalation and/or burns.

The one case involved a Herdsmen being struck by a bull –o. k., not typical for most insureds. However, the othercases involved a crane operator, shipping coordinator,truck driver, painter, press operator, CNC operator,electrician, laborer, maintenance technician, assemblyline worker, line leader and welder. All occupations utilized by most of our policyholders.

Over the last 3 years, MTMIC has covered 1 or 2 fatalities a year. The spread of causes are similar to the State data. These are devastating events with long reaching and lasting effects for the employer, their employees and their families, as well as their customers.

In most of these cases, it appears that the employee died almost immediately. There was no chance to medically help or save them. Even though medicine can do remarkable things, it can only go so far. What are thought to be “simple” injuries, like a laceration (with or without sutures) and “routine” surgeries, like hernia repair or carpal tunnel release, have associated risks. MRSA (Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) can be contracted; cellulitis can develop (bacterial infection of the skin & tissues beneath the skin) as well as osteomyelitis (infection/inflammation of the bone). A hernia can become “strangulated” which means the blood supply to the area (usually intestines) is cut off and the tissue dies.

Obviously, safety is our best defense to combat these issues. However, once an injury does occur, no matter how seemingly “minor”, prompt action should be taken. Immediate medical attention and prompt accident reporting are required for the best possible outcome for the employee and employer. Feel free to call our office with any question you may have concerning the necessary steps that should be taken should an incident occur.