Injuries and illnesses among hospital workers in Ohio. A study of workers' compensation claims from 1993 to 1996

Occupational illnesses and injuries are common problems facing workers and employers. The purpose of this study was to determine the nature and extent of illnesses and injuries among hospital workers in Ohio. All workers' compensation claims for 22 hospitals in Ohio during the period 1993-1996 were reviewed. The majority of the claims were for sprain and strain injuries. Most of the claims were approved. Back injury was the leading cause of injury in both genders, and females reported a significantly higher percentage of back injuries. The incidence rates for injuries and illnesses were lower than national rates for other industries. Generally, there was a downward trend in the number of claims during the study period. A negative linear trend in injury rates by hospital size was detected. Our findings suggest the need for safety programs, especially in smaller hospitals, with the goal of preventing sprain and strain injuries.