The number of deaths due to workplace trauma last year was the highest recorded since 2008, according to data released late last week by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics culled from its 2015 Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries (CFOI).
Private industry accounted for 4,379 of the fatalities; manufacturing for 1,980; natural resources and mining for 690 and agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting for 570. Transportationincidents were the biggest hazard, with 2,054 lives claimed. Slips, trips and falls killed 800 workers, contact with objects and equipment 722; workplace violence (or injuries caused by animals) 703; exposure to harmful substances or environments 424; and fires and explosions 121.