November 20, 2006 (The Editor’s Desk is updated each business day.)

Sprains and strains again most common workplace injury

Sprains and strains was the leading nature of injury and illness in every major industry sector in 2005. They accounted for 41 percent of all workplace injuries and illnesses requiring days away from work.

[Chart data—TXT]

The second most common nature of injury and illness in 2005 was the category bruises and contusions, followed by cuts and lacerations.

There was a decrease of 4 percent in sprains and strains from 2004, led by the manufacturing sector, which experienced an 8-percent decline. Sprains and strains declined by 7 percent in goods-producing industries and by 3 percent in service-providing industries.

These data are from the BLS Injuries, Illnesses, and Fatalities program and are for private industry. To learn more about workplace injuries and illnesses, see "Nonfatal Occupational Injuries and Illnesses Requiring Days Away From Work, 2005" (PDF) (TXT), news release USDL 06-1982.