BWC Reports Decline in Workplace Injuries, Increase in Safety Service Utilization

Dr. Abe Al-Tarawneh, Superintendent of the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) Division of Safety and Hygiene, reported a 16.7 percent decrease in the rate of private sector injuries in the BWC system between calendar years 2010 and 2014.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses shows the rest of the nation experienced an 8.6 percent drop over the same time period.  During that period, total injuries in Ohio’s BWC system dropped from 105,568 to 95,802, a decrease made more significant considering a 7.5 percent growth in employment during the same time period.

Dr. Al-Tarawneh’s report highlights the effectiveness of Ohio’s occupational health and safety programs and services in preventing injuries.  The Division of Safety and Hygiene increased the number of employers utilizing one or more of its services by 70 percent between 2009 and 2015.  9/23/2016