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245. Thermal Burn Fatalities in the Workplace, United States, 1992-1999
B. Quinney BS, G.
McGwin, Jr. PhD, J. M. Cross MD, F. Valent MD, A. Taylor MS, L. W. Rue, III MD
University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL.
Introduction:
The purpose of this study is to present the epidemiology of thermal burn fatalities in the workplace in the United States between 1992 and 1999.
Methods: Data from the Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries
(CFOI) from 1992 through 1999 were analyzed. Information on demographic, occupation and industry characteristics was obtained from the CFOI for those who died due to thermal injuries.
Results: Between 1992 and 1999 there were 1189 fatal thermal burns that occurred in the workplace (mortality rate of 0.11 deaths/100,000 worker-years). Mortality increased with age, with those over 65 having the greatest rate of death (0.20/100,000). Workers in the mining industry and transportation and public utilities had the highest rates of fatal thermal burns. High-risk jobs included those in extractive occupations (such as workers of oil wells, drillers, and mining machine operators) and transportation and material movers. Most victims were operating vehicles or involved in other transportation operations at the time of the incident. The majority of injurious incidents occurred on industrial premises or the street and highway.
Conclusions: Even though a rare event, fatal thermal burns in the workplace are important because they can aid in the identification of prevention routes to lower overall burn frequency. High-risk individuals, such as older workers, those operating vehicles, and those employed in certain occupations could benefit from the increased awareness of possible injury.
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