Injury mortality in a cohort of mining, smelting, and refining workers in Ontario

Injury mortality was followed up from 1950 to 2000 in a cohort of 56,576 nickel workers. Injury fatalities were elevated throughout the cohort of never sinter plant workers (SMR = 134, 95% CI [129, 140]). Elevations were also observed in injury mortality subcategories of road, rail, and air (SMR = 137, 95% CI [127, 147]); boating and swimming (SMR = 150, 95% CI [128, 176]); suicide and possible suicide (SMR = 124, 95% CI [114, 135]); and possibly job-related accidents (SMR = 160, 95% CI [145, 175]). The results were largely attributed to underground miners, with 61.4% of all injury mortality (SMR = 162; 95% CI [153, 171]). Occupational etiology could not be ascertained; however, compiled workplace injury fatalities are presented separately. Recommendations include delivery of injury prevention and wellness programs in partnership with the local health unit and other stakeholders.