Despite advancements in safety technology, training and equipment, the construction industry still faces high rates of fatal injuries and accidents among its employees.
For example, 20% of worker deaths in the United States occur in construction. However, construction workers account for only6% of the U.S. labour market. This disparity highlights the need to continue to improve safety for workers in the construction industry.
We have compiled 25 construction safety statistics to highlight site safety’s importance. These statistics give a clear picture of the industry’s state in 2022.
To jump to a particular section, click on the link above. Or continue reading to view all 25 statistics.
Fatal Construction Industry Statistics
1. 1 out 5 deaths in the United States is in the construction industry.
2. Around 60% of the 42 crane-related deaths yearly involve a falling object.
3. In 2020, a total of 1,008 workers in construction died on their job.
4. Every year, 10.2 out of 100,000 construction workers are killed in an accident. This is the third-highest rate of fatal injuries in any industry.
5. Falls account for 34% of all deaths in construction – eliminating construction falls would save over 300 lives each year.
6. More than 60% of all construction-related death are due to the “Fatal Four”, which is a combination of falls, equipment strikes, electrocutions, and caught between objects.
Non-Fatal Construction Injuries
7. Every year, 1.1% construction workers are injured serious enough to miss work.
8. 6% percent of all injuries that lead to lost work days are caused by the construction industry.
9. In 2020, the 24% increase in injury and illness rates in construction was higher than in all other industries.
10. More than 25% indicate that they have failed to report an injury at work.
11. In 2020, there were 174,100 cases of injuries in the construction industry.
12. Construction workers between 25 and 34 were more likely to be hurt while on the job.
Cost of Construction Injuries
13. The United States is estimated to lose $5 billion annually due to fatal construction injuries. This includes lost income, health care and production costs.
14. $170 Billion annually.
15. $2.5 Billion annually is the amount of workers’ compensation claims for non-fatal falls.