Workplace Deaths Double in West Virginia

October 19, 2011

Fatal on-the-job incidents in West Virginia more than doubled in 2010 compared to the previous year.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics said 95 workers were killed in workplace incidents, up from 41 in 2009. It’s the highest total since the annual Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries began 19 years ago.

The 2010 deaths include 29 coal miners who were killed in an explosion at the Upper Big Branch mine in Raleigh County.

Thirty-three fatalities were due to fire, including the Upper Big Branch deaths. Eleven workers suffered fatal injuries in highway incidents. Eight workers died after being struck by an object or equipment.

Other causes included exposure to harmful substances or environments and being caught or compressed by equipment or objects.

Topics Commercial Lines Business Insurance Virginia West Virginia

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