The rate of work-related injuries and illnesses among Louisiana’s private-sector employers improved in 2014 to the best level in 13 years, the Louisiana Workforce Commission announced today, citing a new federal Bureau of Labor Statistics survey.
The survey showed Louisiana improved to two incidents per 100 full-time workers, down from 2.2 in 2013. The national average was 3.2. Louisiana ranked first among the 41 participating states, trailing only the District of Columbia for the rate of nonfatal, workplace-related injuries and illnesses. It was the state’s best showing since the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration revised its record-keeping rules in 2002.
“Workplace safety clearly has become a top priority for Louisiana companies and their employees,” says Curt Eysink, executive director of the Louisiana Workforce Commission, in a prepared statement. “In addition to the inherent benefits of fewer injuries, their commitment to safety also is leading to lower costs for workers’ compensation insurance.”
Workers’ compensation insurance rates in Louisiana have dropped approximately 17% since 2008, according to the Louisiana Department of Insurance. The National Council of Compensation Insurance has recommended a reduction of an additional 2.7% for 2016.
