Workplace Fatalities Up in Minnesota

The number of work-related fatalities in Minnesota last year was up 12 percent from the recent five-year average.

The state Department of Labor and Industry says there were 74 work-related fatalities in 2015, up from 62 the previous year and up from the average of 66 from 2010 through 2014.

Minnesota's agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting sector had the highest number of worker fatalities, with 23. Construction was second, with nine. There were 31 transportation-related fatalities, the most for any incident type. Sixty of the 74 fatally injured workers in Minnesota were men.

The workplace fatality statistics are from the annual Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries, conducted by the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Nationally, there were 4,836 worker fatalities last year, similar to the 2014 count of 4,821.

You can increase your safety in the workplace by staying healthy and fit. Many studies have shown exercise and eating properly are among the best ways to combat stress, increase your stamina and maintain healthy self-esteem.

Eating well keeps your mind sharp and focused, and gives you energy to tackle any tough challenges. Try to eat fresh and healthy food daily and listen to your body. If what you are eating is sapping your energy or making you feel jittery, then don't eat it.

Your day should include some exercise.

Getting enough sleep may be the most important thing you can do because there is a definite link between insufficient sleep and serious health problems, such as heart disease, heart attacks, diabetes, dementia and obesity. Getting eight hours of sleep every night is very important for brain functioning.

Some of the information included here came from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.