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Terry L. Bunn, PhD and Whitney A. Conner. Kentucky Injury Prevention and Research Center, University of Kentucky, 333 Waller Ave., Suite 202, Lexington, KY 40504, 859-257-4955, tlbunn2@uky.edu
Purpose: The Kentucky Fatality Assessment and Control Evaluation (FACE) Program conducts surveillance of all Kentucky work-related deaths to identify worker populations at risk for occupational fatalities in similar industries and occupations. Nationwide and in Kentucky, self-employed workers comprise approximately 10% (7% unincorporated, 3% incorporated business) of the total workforce (BLS, CFOI, 2002 and US Census Bureau, 2000) and 19% of all worker deaths. The aim of this study was to characterize self-employed Kentucky worker deaths. Methods: A descriptive study of self-employed workers compared to wage and salary workers was conducted using FACE data. Results: From 2000-2003, there were 476 worker deaths and 131 (27.5%) were self-employed. Over one-half of deaths were in the agricultural industry (57%), 12% in services, 8% each in construction and retail industries. Fifty-eight percent were in farming/forestry/fishing occupations. The most frequent causes of death were machinery (38%), transport (14%), struck by/against (9%) and firearms (9%). Forty-nine percent of the fatalities were tractor-related. Of the agricultural fatalities (n=75), 20 (27%) involved a tractor overturn and 9 (12%) fell off/runover by a tractor. There were 14 homicides: 10 with firearms, 3 strangulation/beatings, and 1 with a knife. Criminal intent was involved in 10 of the homicides and a personal relationship in 4. Conclusions: Kentucky has a high number of self-employed worker deaths, with an increased number of deaths observed in the agricultural and services industries. Most agricultural deaths were tractor-related. Kentucky self-employed worker climate should be examined more fully.
Learning Objectives: Objectives
Keywords: Occupational Injury and Death,
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.