Work-related injuries to Massachusetts teens, 1987-1990

This study uses workers' compensation data to describe the work-related injury experience of Massachusetts teens, ages 14-17, from 1987 to 1990. During this period, 2,551 injuries were reported to the workers' compensation system. Injuries were more frequent among 16-17 year-olds and among males. Sprains and strains, followed by lacerations, were the most frequent type of injury. Four industries--grocery stores, restaurants, health services, and department stores--accounted for over half of all injuries. The overall injury rate was 1.9/100 full-time equivalents (FTEs), but was higher in the construction, manufacturing, and wholesale trade sectors. Teens working in apparel manufacturing and nursing homes sustained the highest rate of injuries. Geographical analysis indicated that teens living in the southeast region of the state had the highest injury rates. This study adds to the existing evidence that work-related injuries to teens are a substantial public health problem.