Statistics on workplace incidents often run a bit behind, so the most recent ones we have for electrical injuries and fatalities are for 2018. However, they show a concerning reversal of the overall trend.
Like many other issues, electrical injuries and fatalities have been growing less common. Back in 2004, a total of 254 people died in these accidents. It then fell consistently until 2010, when it hit just 164 fatalities for the year. Even with some spikes, the overall downward trend continued. For instance, there were 134 deaths in 2015 and 136 in 2017.
In 2018, though, things spiked massively. There were 160 deaths from electrical incidents on the job. That set things back almost a decade, nearing the 164 incidents from 2010.
Now, this is still far lower than what was seen in the early 2000s, when the chart begins. Plus, there have been spikes before. The real test will be to look at the numbers for 2019, 2020 and 2021 as they are gathered. Is the spike going to continue? Will we see more injuries and fatalities? Or are things going to start declining again, eventually getting down under the 100 mark?
Only the future can tell, but it is clear that electrical issues are still a serious threat to workers in many professions. Even those who survive could suffer severe burns and other injuries. Some of these can be life-changing, leading to pain and suffering, high medical bills, the loss of a career and many other issues. Those who find themselves in this position have to know what legal options they have and what compensation they deserve.
