Workplace fatalities

Portland, OR – A total of 59 workers died on the job in Oregon in 2011, an increase of more than 15 percent from 2010, according to a new report from the Oregon Fatality Assessment and Control Evaluation Program.

Work-related falls can result in severe injuries and death. According to the National Safety Council, falls to a lower level were the second leading cause of workplace fatalities in 2009, behind highway crashes.

A workplace shooting or other violent incident can harm employees and damage morale. What signs should employers look for to recognize potentially dangerous employees, and how should they respond to the threat?