Trends and Characteristics of Occupational Injuries in Thailand, 2002-2010

Abstract

Occupational injuries are important health problems in Thailand and cause significant health impacts on workers, in addition to economic loss. Data was obtained and analyzed from National Injury Surveillance (NIS) System for describing epidemiology of agricultural injuries and from Workmen's Compensation Fund (WCF) statistics for identifying trends and characteristics of injuries and deaths in industrial and business workers during the period of 2002-2010. Results from NIS showed that 17,481 agricultural injuries were reported and accounted for 16.9% of all injuries, with 96 deaths (case fatality rate of 0.5 per 100 workers). Leading causes of occupational injuries were struck by thrown or falling object, fall from height and contact with agricultural machinery. Most cases occurred in the afternoon during 1-6 pm (44.2%). The WCF statistics revealed that rates of injuries among industrial workers had decreased from 31.4 per 1,000 workers in 2002 to 16.5 per 1,000 workers in 2010. Young workers aged 20-29 years old (46.4%) were more likely to get injured and die than that of other age groups. Puncture and penetrating wounds were the most common injuries (41.0-43.9%). Leading causes of deaths were vehicle accident, fall from height and unintentional electrocution. The outcomes of this study could be used to develop guideline and strategy on surveillance system and prevention of occupational injuries in Thailand.