How big a problem and expense are work related slips and falls?
The 2005 Liberty Mutual Workplace Safety Index indicates that falls were the second leading cause of all workplace injuries in 2003, accounting for 13.7 percent of total direct costs associated with workplace injuries, or $6.9 billion. Additionally, the National Safety Council estimates that worker compensation and medical costs associated with employee slip and fall accidents are approximately $70 billion per year. According to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), slips, trips and falls constitute the majority of workplace accidents. The costs associated these is a growing problem, resulting in millions of dollars in paid claims, increased insurance costs, and lawsuits. Approximately 30% of all workers’ compensation claims result from a slip or fall. The average slip and fall claim is $4,000. The average cost to defend against a slip and fall lawsuit is $50,000.
