The CEO of the Workers’ Compensation Board says he’s concerned about the number of deaths on the job in 2018.
The WCB recently released statistics in their third quarter report to the community – from last July to October.
Twelve people died due to traumatic incidents while another 17 passed away due to health-related conditions, as of the end of September.
Stuart MacLean says one fatality is too many.
“And the impact on families and the impact on communities, we need a different reality when it comes to that.”
Six of the deaths occurred in the fishing industry.
MacLean feels education, awareness and wearing proper safety equipment can play a big part in saving lives.
The report also states Nova Scotians are getting injured at work less often, but when they are, they are taking longer to return.
From last July to October, the average length of time an injured worker spent off the job increased to 124 days, from 117 at the end of 2017.
Also, there were 1,476 time-loss injuries, down from 1,500 in 2017 during the same period.
MacLean says it’s a start.
“Obviously, we like to see the injuries coming down. We’re making progress. When you look at the longer term, things are going in the right direction.”
MacLean says every injury at work has an impact on the overall well-being of the province and economy.
Reported by: Nick Yorston
Twitter: @NickYorston
E-mail: yorston.nick@radioabl.ca
