 The Center for Construction Research and Training (CPWR) Data Center study, “Fatal Falls from Roofs Among U.S. Construction Workers,” found that falls from roofs accounted for one-third of fall-related construction fatalities from 1992-2009. The findings suggest that workers employed by small establishments, residential construction workers, Hispanic workers and immigrant workers may face disproportionately high risks of roof fatalities. A total of 20,498 occupational fatalities occurred in the construction industry from 1992-2009. Of these deaths, nearly one-third – 6,591 – were attributed to fall injuries, with 2,163 fatalities resulting from roof falls. Citing the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the study points out that falls account for 76 percent of fatalities in the roofing industry, and workers in the roofing industry are three times more likely to experience fatal work-related injuries than other construction workers. “While roof injuries occur among many construction occupations and sectors, this study confirmed that roofing and residential construction sectors have a much higher risk of falls from roofs than any other construction sectors. All roofing contractors should have a written fall protection program that specifies what type of fall protection is provided, provides adequate training for workers, and enforces fall protection programs,” the study states. Key findings include:
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