Updated Forklift Safety Data: Nonfatal Trends & New Classification Changes
In recognition of National Forklift Safety Day, it’s crucial to examine the latest data on forklift-related injuries and fatalities. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) recently implemented important classification updates starting with the 2023 data year.
Transition to Biennial Nonfatal Injury Reporting
BLS has transitioned from annual to biennial publication of nonfatal injury data, with the final single-year report issued for 2020. From 2021 onward, nonfatal data—specifically Days Away from Work (DAFW), Days of Job Transfer or Restriction (DJTR), and Days Away from Work, Job Restriction, or Transfer (DART)—are published every two years. This shift is essential to keep in mind when comparing trends across years, as data is now aggregated over two-year periods.
In the 2021–2022 period, injury demographics showed:
- 4% of DART cases occurred to female workers
- The highest number of DART cases were among workers aged 25–34
This new data provides valuable insights into which segments of the workforce are most affected by forklift-related incidents, helping employers refine safety strategies.
New Classification System Introduced in 2023
BLS also updated its Occupational Injury and Illness Classification System beginning with the 2023 reporting year. This update affects how injuries and illnesses are categorized and is considered a data break—meaning comparisons to pre-2023 data should be made cautiously.
Currently:
- 2023 fatality data use the new classification categories
- 2021–2022 nonfatal data still use the previous classification system
This change improves future injury and illness tracking but introduces a transition period that complicates year-over-year comparisons.
Forklift Fatalities Remain a Critical Concern
In 2023, 67 workers died in incidents involving forklifts, order pickers, or platform trucks. Fatal injuries were most common among workers aged 45–54, contrasting with the younger demographic affected most by nonfatal incidents in the 2021–2022 period.
Promoting a Safer Forklift Workplace
Enhancing forklift safety starts with consistent training, routine equipment maintenance, and a workplace culture that prioritizes awareness and accountability. These foundational practices play a critical role in preventing accidents and protecting employees.
MHEDA is committed to supporting your safety efforts with a variety of resources designed to strengthen forklift safety in your operations. From industry-recognized training and certification programs to member-provided safety consultations and best practice guides, MHEDA helps ensure your team is equipped with the knowledge and tools they need.
In addition, regular forklift maintenance is essential—not just for performance, but as a proactive step in identifying and addressing potential hazards before they lead to incidents.
Track the Trends
Explore more statistics and trends in forklift-related fatalities and nonfatal injuries on the MHEDA website. As always, MHEDA encourages members to use these insights to reinforce training programs, prioritize high-risk demographics, and align with best practices in safety
References
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (n.d.-a). Databases, tables & calculators by subject. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/data/home.htm
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (n.d.-b). Employed persons by detailed occupation. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/cps/cpsaat11.htm
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (n.d.-c). Injuries, Illnesses, and Fatalities. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/iif/home.htm
