Temporal Trends in Workers' Compensation Claims by Industry and Occupation in Pennsylvania (2014-2023).

Marks, James T; Babich, Remy; Nair, Anil · J Occup Environ Med · 2026

cross_sectional · Level IV

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Abstract

Examine trends in Pennsylvania workers' compensation (WC) claims by industry and occupation, 2014-2023. WC claim rates (per 1,000 jobs held) were calculated using the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages as the denominator. Multiple linear regression estimated temporal trends across industry-specific WC claim rates, pre-pandemic (2014-2019) and post-pandemic (2020-2023). Negative binomial models estimated risk ratios (RR) across occupation groups, with Office and Administrative Support as reference. Rates declined in most industries, including Public Administration and Construction. Transportation, Retail, and Management of Companies remained high without long-term declines. Elevated RRs were identified in Transportation and Material Moving (RR=3.11), Production (RR=1.70), and Healthcare Practitioners (RR=1.31) occupations. Despite overall declines, industry- and occupation-specific risks persist in Pennsylvania. High-risk industries and occupations need targeted prevention and continued surveillance.