SHARP Focus Newsletter - Fall 2024

Teen Worker Injuries and Amputations

Teen workers face a variety of hazards on the job. The number of workers’ compensation claims among teens has increased over time in Washington, and the injuries can be severe. From 2016 through 2023, thirty-five teen workers suffered an amputation on the job. The greatest percentage of teen work-related injuries and amputations occur in food service.

Firefighter Injury Claims

Firefighters have a high rate of work-related injuries and illnesses. SHARP researchers analyzed data from 2006-2020 and found that the workers' compensation claim rate for firefighters was significantly higher than law enforcement officers and other workers. Nearly 40% of firefighter claims were for work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). A recent SHARP Research Findings gives more information about this study.

Occupational Respiratory Disease Surveillance

Work-related respiratory diseases are preventable. SHARP's occupational respiratory disease surveillance system collects data on work-related asthma, asbestos-related disease, silicosis, Valley fever, and toxic inhalations. SHARP uses this information to describe disease incidence and trends, identify high-risk industries and emerging hazards, and inform prevention strategies.

More information can be found in a technical report describing recent findings from the program.

A new SHARP Stat shows a decline in the incidence of asbestos-related diseases in Washington State over the past two decades.