Fatalities in electrical occupations, unionization, and associated factors

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the association between worker unionization and risk factors linked to fatalities in electrical trades due to contact with electricity. Methods: Layered cross-tabulation was used to assess the association between electrical fatalities and selected accident factors grouped by union status using inspection data from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) between 1998 and 2018. Analyses were examined by the Pearson chi-square test of independence and the Phi correlation coefficient. Results: The odds of electrical fatalities in organizations with representation for electrical workers were significantly less than in non-unionized environments. Electrical fatalities were significantly less probable in unionized environments for both electricians and electrical power installers/repairers. Accident factors such as electrical event, fatality cause, and accident location were negatively correlated with electrical fatalities in unionized environments. Conclusions: Worker representation displays a statistically significant association with a reduction in electrical fatalities. Practical applications: Electrical unions should continue to promote safer working conditions, compliance with safety regulations, and comprehensive training in electrical safety emphasizing the identification of electrical hazards, including the risks of contact with overhead power lines and energized equipment, as well as accident prevention practices that comprise strict adherence to minimum approaching distances, lockout-tagout procedures, and the proper execution of de-energizing, testing, grounding, tagging, and flagging procedures.