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Do older workers suffer more workplace injuries? A systematic review.
Gonzalo Bravo1, Carlos Viviani2, Martin Lavallière3
1Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Las Américas, Chile.
Summary
Older workers face higher risks of fatal work injuries, while younger workers are more prone to non-fatal injuries. This systematic review highlights age-related differences in occupational safety outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Gerontology
- Public Health
Background:
- Global populations are aging, increasing the proportion of older workers in the workforce.
- Understanding age-related differences in work injury risk is crucial for targeted safety interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and compare the prevalence of fatal and non-fatal work-related injuries between younger (<45 years) and older (≥45 years) workers.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature review was conducted.
- Studies comparing safety outcomes (fatal and non-fatal injuries) between age groups were analyzed.
Main Results:
- 50% of studies indicated older workers sustain more fatal injuries; 50% found no age difference.
- Regarding non-fatal injuries, 49% found no age relationship, 31% suggested age is protective, and 19% indicated higher risk for older workers.
- Overall, older workers showed higher rates of fatal injuries, and younger workers showed higher rates of non-fatal injuries.
Conclusions:
- Older workers appear to have a higher risk for fatal occupational injuries.
- Younger workers may be at greater risk for non-fatal work-related injuries.
- Age is a significant factor influencing the type and severity of work-related injuries.
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