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Adolescent occupational injuries: Texas, 1990-1996
S P Cooper1, K D Burau, T B Robison
1University of Texas-Houston School of Public Health, USA. scooper@utsph.sph.uth.tmc.edu
American Journal of Industrial Medicine
|January 13, 1999
Summary
Thousands of adolescents in Texas experience workplace injuries and fatalities annually. This study highlights the need for better surveillance and immediate prevention efforts for young workers.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Adolescent Health
- Injury Epidemiology
Background:
- A lack of comprehensive surveillance systems for adolescent occupational injuries exists in Texas.
- The magnitude, severity, nature, and sources of these injuries remain poorly described.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the scope and characteristics of work-related injuries and deaths among adolescents in Texas.
- To inform the development of targeted prevention strategies for young workers.
Main Methods:
- Utilized three data sources: Texas Workers' Compensation Commission (TWCC) claims (1991-1996), TWCC/Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) survey (1993), and Texas death certificates (1990-1995).
- Analyzed data for adolescents aged 14-17 years.
Main Results:
- Over 9,000 injuries reported to TWCC; 21.7% resulted in indemnity payments (over 7 days lost).
- Common causes of non-fatal injuries included contact with objects (35%), bodily reaction (27%), and falls (24%).
- Two-thirds of injuries occurred in food service and grocery stores; motor vehicle accidents and homicide accounted for most deaths.
Conclusions:
- A significant number of adolescents are injured or killed at work in Texas annually.
- While enhanced surveillance is needed, current data support immediate implementation of prevention measures.
- Targeted interventions are crucial for reducing adolescent workplace injuries and fatalities.