Trench, fall fatalities down due to OSHA enforcement efforts

Worker deaths from falls and trench collapses, two of the leading causes of death among construction workers, have significantly decreased due to OSHA’s enforcement efforts.

OSHA investigated 826 fatal injuries in fiscal year (FY) 2024, down from 928 in the previous year. Not including Covid-related deaths, this is the lowest number of worker deaths investigated by the agency since FY 2017.

Enforcement efforts include the agency’s National Emphasis Program on Falls, which saw a decrease in fatal falls from 234 to 189, almost a 20 percent decrease. Preliminary data from state OSHA programs indicates more than a 15 percent decrease in worker deaths.

Worker deaths in trench collapses decreased from 39 in 2022 to 15 in 2023, and for calendar year 2024, there have only been 12. These decreases follow intensive outreach and education by OSHA and industry partners, as well as state plans’ “zero tolerance” policy for unprotected trenches.

Information about OSHA’s emphasis programs as well as resources to help employers identify and correct hazards, improve safety and health programs, and remain in compliance can be found on OSHA’s website.