Statistical analysis of fatal occupational falls in the Taiwan construction industry from 1996–2007

This study analyzed fatal construction falls in Taiwan. In total, 1,062 occupational accident reports were filed in 1996–2007; these reports were extracted from the annual publications of the Council of Labor Affairs (CLA). These data were analyzed in terms of sex, age and work experience of the accident victim as well as time of day, month of the year, height of the work surface, activity at the time of the incident, accident event, and any other factors considered relevant to identifying significant contributing factors. The CLA data indicate that roofing work was the leading cause of fatal occupational falls (128 victims, 12.1%). Approximately 30% (315 victims) of fatal events were contributed to falls from scaffold or staging. Most victims (536 victims, 50.4%) fell from less than 10 meters. Notably, most did not use a handrail or safety belt while working at heights. These analytical findings provide a direction for effective inspection strategies and programs for preventing occupational falls.