Citation

Dong XS, Choi SD, Borchardt JG, Wang X, Largay JA. J. Saf. Res. 2013; 44: 17-24.

Affiliation

CPWR - The Center for Construction Research and Training, 8484 Georgia Avenue, Suite 1000, Silver Spring, MD 20910, USA. Electronic address: sdong@cpwr.com.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2013, U.S. National Safety Council, Publisher Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.jsr.2012.08.024

PMID

23398700

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: This study examined trends and patterns of fatal falls from roofs in the U.S. construction industry over an 18-year period (1992-2009), with detailed analysis for 2003-2009. METHODS: Two large national datasets were analyzed: the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries and the Current Population Survey. RESULTS: Roof fatalities accounted for one-third of fatal falls in construction in 1992-2009. A disproportionately high percentage (67%) of deaths from roof falls occurred in small construction establishments (1-10 employees). Roofers, ironworkers, workers employed with roofing contractors, or working at residential construction sites, had a higher risk of roof fatalities. A higher rate of roof fatalities was also found among younger (<20years) and older (>44years) workers, Hispanics, and immigrant workers. CONCLUSION: Roof fatalities corresponded with economic cycles and differed among construction subgroups and worksites. Impact on Industry: Prevention strategies should target high-risk worker groups and small establishments.

Language: en