The number of workplace accidents in Cuba fell in 2023, yet the death toll remained constant, according to the state-run National Office of Statistics and Information (ONEI). In a report titled "Work Protection: Selected Indicators," the agency reported that from January to December 2023, a total of 1,491 workplace accidents occurred in Cuba. This figure represents a 10.6% decrease compared to the previous period.
While the ONEI noted that the number of injured workers dropped to 1,537 people (10.5%), the number of fatalities in workplace incidents stood at 52, the same as reported in 2022. The mortality rate, which signifies the number of deaths per 1,000 injured, rose from 30.3 to 33.8 points. This increase was particularly due to incidents in the Agriculture, Construction, and Electricity, Gas, and Water Supply sectors, each contributing seven fatalities.
The Manufacturing Industry reported the highest number of injuries, with 251 people affected, followed by the Public Health and Social Assistance sector, with 231 injuries. Men accounted for 68.4% of the total injuries in the country, while women made up 31.6%.
According to the ONEI statistics, Havana recorded 458 injured workers and 13 fatalities in workplace accidents. Holguín followed with 176 injuries, and Santiago de Cuba had 149. Notably, the data from the ONEI excluded figures from the Ministry of the Revolutionary Armed Forces (MINFAR) and the Ministry of the Interior (MININT), meaning the report did not account for the deaths of two Cuban rescuers in a building collapse in Old Havana last October.
Understanding Workplace Safety in Cuba: Key Questions Answered
In light of recent statistics on workplace accidents and fatalities in Cuba, several questions arise regarding the safety measures and sectors most affected. Here, we address some crucial queries.
What was the total number of workplace accidents in Cuba in 2023?
In 2023, there were a total of 1,491 workplace accidents in Cuba.
Which sectors had the highest number of fatalities?
The Agriculture, Construction, and Electricity, Gas, and Water Supply sectors each reported seven fatalities.
How did the number of injured workers in 2023 compare to the previous year?
The number of injured workers decreased by 10.5%, totaling 1,537 people in 2023.
Which city had the highest number of workplace injuries?
Havana recorded the highest number of workplace injuries, with 458 cases.