Mining Injuries 2012-2019: Using Workers' Compensation Claims Data from 35 States to Identify Rates and Costs associated by Nature of Injury, Event/Exposure, and Body Part Affected

Abstract

Abstract Objective This study summarized the frequency and cost of mining-related injuries. Methods Mining-related workers’ compensation (WC) claims data from 35 states were summarized to report counts, claim rates, and costs for 2012–2019. These data were compared with Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) injury and employment data for the same period. Results Despite system differences, both WC and MSHA counts and rates declined over time and injury patterns were similar. Total WC costs were ~ $2.325B. Medical-only claims represented 59.4% of the claims by count, but only 3.3% of costs. Lost-time non-fatal claims represented 40.2% of the claims by count, but 90.2% of costs. Claims frequency and costs varied greatly by injury event/exposure, part of body, and nature. Conclusions Injury frequency has declined but costs remain high. The most costly and disabling cases were identified.