Workers in the state of Pennsylvania have something to celebrate. A report recently released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that in 2013, the number of deaths that occurred in workplaces fell. The preliminary rate is down 13% as compared to 2012. At 163 deaths, that is the lowest number the state has reported since record keeping began in 1992.

The largest reduction came in the number of people who died after falls from one floor of a building to another. Sectors in which the number of deaths fell include:

• Construction
• Industrial
• Transportation

The number of workers who died at work intentionally, either at the hands of another person, or themselves, also dropped.

The unexpected death of a loved one is difficult to handle regardless of how it happens. When a worker is hurt in the course of his or her job it may be possible to secure workers' compensation benefits. Under some circumstances, when a worker dies, his or her family may receive workers' compensation death benefits.

These benefits are not just handed out. To receive them, an injured party or his or her loved ones must file a claim. Sometimes these claims are initially denied. In these situations applicants may still be able to secure these benefits. Because the process can be complicated many find it beneficial to seek assistance from a workers' compensation lawyer. Hiring someone to take over may make it easier for the injured worker to concentrate on his or her recovery.

Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, "Pennsylvania work deaths decline" 15 January 2014