Virginia Saw Increase in On-the-Job Fatalities Last Year

On-the-job fatalities in Virginia increased by 5 percent in 2008, despite declines in several categories.

Preliminary figures released Thursday by the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry show 154 workers were killed on the job last year, compared to 146 in 2007.

Thirty-seven fatalities resulted from assaults or violent acts, up from 21 in 2007.

Deaths due to contact with objects and equipment increased from 23 in 2007 to 27.

Fatal transportation incidents fell from 57 in 2007 to 52, while on-the-job deaths due to falls declined from 25 to 20.

Labor and Industry Commissioner C. Ray Davenport said state officials are disappointed with the increase in workplace deaths.