Characterizing occupational heat-related mortality in the United States, 2000-2010: An analysis using the census of fatal occupational injuries database: Occupational Heat-Related Mortality in the US
- Abstract
Background: Occupational heat-related mortality is not well studied and risk factors remain largely unknown. This paper describes the epidemiological characteristics of heat-related deaths among workers in the US 2000-2010. Methods: Fatality data were obtained at the Bureau of Labor Statistics from the confidential on-site Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries database. Fatality rates and risk ratios with 95% confidence intervals were calculated by year, sex, age group, ethnicity, race, state, and industry. Results: Between 2000 and 2010, 359 occupational heat-related deaths were identified in the U.S., for a yearly average fatality rate of 0.22 per 1 million workers. Highest rates were found among Hispanics, men, the agriculture and construction industries, the state of Mississippi, and very small establishments. Conclusions: This study provides the first comprehensive national profile of heat-related deaths in the U.S. workplace. Prevention efforts should be directed at small businesses and at industries and individuals with the highest risk.
- Resource Type
- Peer-reviewed article
- Authors
- Diane M. Gubernot G. Brooke Anderson Katherine L. Hunting
- Resource URL
- http://doi.wiley.com/10.1002/ajim.22381
- Publication
- American Journal of Industrial Medicine
- Volume
- 58
- Issue
- 2
- Pages
- 203-211
- Date
- Feb 2015
- DOI
- 10.1002/ajim.22381
- ISSN
- 02713586
- Short Title
- Characterizing occupational heat-related mortality in the United States, 2000-2010
- Health and Human Impacts
- Heat illness/extreme temperature Occupational health
- Climate and Environmental Impact
- Heat