In New York, construction is the deadliest industry, with immigrant workers experiencing half of all occupational-related fatalities. In Massachusetts in 2013, it’s estimated that upward of 500 workers died from occupational disease, at least 1,800 were diagnosed with cancers associated with workplace exposures and 50,000 workers experienced serious injury. In Wyoming, workplace deaths climbed to a five-year high in 2012.
It takes time to change social norms, so it’ll probably take many, many years until it’s as socially unacceptable to text or use a cell phone while driving as it is to start the engine without first buckling a seat belt. In the meantime, researchers say, smart policies are needed to address the increasing share of pedestrian and bicyclist deaths attributed to distracted driving.
For older workers, the most dangerous occupational move may be getting behind the wheel.
When most of us pass by a new high-rise or drive down a new road, we rarely think: Did the builders and planners consider my health? However, a new report from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency offers evidence that certain types of land use and transportation decisions can indeed limit the human health and environmental impacts of development.
Environmental Health
Security cameras in taxicabs, not partitions, reduce homicide rates for cab drivers
The risk of homicide is higher for taxicab drivers than for most other occupations. A new study finds that surveillance cameras mounted inside the cabs substantially reduce the drivers’ risk of homicide.
For more safe bicycle commuting, cities should invest in bicycling infrastructure and enforce safety rules.
The AFL-CIO’s “Death on the Job” report shows why U.S. workers deserve much better protections than they are getting.
If you’ve followed the link from the New York Times Magazine’s letters page, welcome to The Pump Handle!
A new Brookings report finds that intercity rail ridership is growing faster than other travel modes, but Amtrak is essentially two distinct systems — one thriving, the other not.
Environmental Health
New DOT policy promises better health and safety protections for flight attendants
After three decades, the FAA has finally acknowledged that its regulations to protect the health and safety of flight attendants are not adequate. A new policy—barring major objections from the airlines—-will extend OSHA protections to airline flight attendants.