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Fatal occupational accidents in Ontario, 1986-1989
H S Shannon1, L Hope, L Griffith
1Occupational Health Program, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine
|February 1, 1993
Summary
Fatal occupational accidents in Ontario were analyzed, finding alcohol and cannabis use in a small percentage of cases. Organizational factors were frequently cited, but language and literacy were overlooked, highlighting areas for improved workplace safety.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Forensic Toxicology
- Workplace Safety Analysis
Background:
- Fatal occupational accidents pose a significant risk in various industries.
- Understanding contributing factors is crucial for implementing effective safety measures.
- Previous studies have explored various causes, but substance use and organizational factors require continued investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the characteristics and contributing factors of fatal occupational accidents in Ontario.
- To investigate the prevalence of alcohol and drug use in fatal incidents.
- To identify overlooked factors such as language and literacy in accident recommendations.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 470 eligible fatal occupational accidents in Ontario (1986-1989).
- Exclusion of homicides and most public road accidents.
- Data collection from coroners' files and Ministry of Labour records.
Main Results:
- Alcohol impairment levels found in 2% of tested fatalities; cannabis detected in 3.9% of cases.
- Coroner's jury recommendations frequently cited organizational factors, rarely mentioning language or literacy.
- Accident incidence increased with age; more accidents occurred in the first half of work shifts.
Conclusions:
- Substance use was detected in a minority of fatal occupational accidents, but remains a factor to consider.
- Organizational issues are recognized as significant, yet communication barriers like language and literacy are underemphasized.
- Workplace safety strategies should address age-related risks and shift timing, alongside substance use and communication challenges.