News from the Bureau of Labor Statistics

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), Bureau of Labor Statistics has just released its August 20, 2008 Report for 2007.

Since 1992 the fatal falls stat has increased 39% to 835, from 600. See the green trend-line in the chart, taken from the DOL BLS 2007 report.

This in spite of new and improved OSHA regulations and industry concensus standards such as the I-14.1-2001, not to mention most construction firms now have the new post of "Safety Director" to create safety manuals, monitor practices on site, prevent accidents before they happen. Unfortunately, there aren't enough OSHA inspectors for all the
 new construction and existing buildings too.

So what's happening here? Are people becoming complacent, not wearing their protective gear, or are they not being provided safe working conditions?

Safety is a #1 issue concerning many construction firms, building owners and managers, and the general public -- it is costing thousands of lives over the years, and is impacting loved ones, friends and families -- in some cases innocent bystanders are being killed or tragically injured.

It is also costing business billions in lost productivity and expense. Everyone is responsible for a safety culture and putting lives before dollars. How can we change this trend?