Number of Minnesota workplace injuries drops

The number of workplace injuries in Minnesota is at an all-time low, the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry reported last month.

According to the results of the annual Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses, there were an estimated 3.8 nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses for every 100 full-time workers in 2011. This number is down slightly from the 2010 estimate of 3.9 cases per 100 workers.

“These numbers are part of a long-term downward trend in injuries due to greater safety awareness and technological improvements in the workplace,” said Ken Peterson, Department of Labor and Industry commissioner. “For example, the 1995 injury rate was more than double the 2011 rate, so we are encouraged by this trend.”

The survey estimated the number of Minnesota's nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses to be 75,400 for 2011, down from 76,700 for 2010 and 78,100 for 2009.

Tags: business, minnesota