Travelers Insurance recently released a report, based on analysis of five years of data, showing that over a third of workplace injuries occur in the first year on the job.

The study suggests a profound need for more extensive training in the first year of employment across all industries but even more so in the construction industry.

Study Results

  • Injuries in the first year on the job accounted for 48 percent of claims and 52 percent of claim costs.
  • The top three causes of first-year injuries were overexertion, slips/trips/falls, and being struck by an object.
  • The average number of missed workdays associated with first-year injuries in construction was 98 days.
  • The average cost of a workers compensation claim was more than double that of all industries combined.

While safety receives more attention today than ever before, much remains to be done. High turnover, labor shortages and pending retirements in the construction workforce guarantee a steady flow of new workers, which has the makings of a perfect storm.

Contractors must find ways to consistently and effectively provide training during the onboarding process and to reinforce those lessons weekly or even daily based on the task at hand.

New technologies provide ways to do this, and some even offer the training content.

MindForge is an IRMI sister company specializing in communications and training for field workers. Contractors can use technology such as this to provide training for new employees or to push training reinforcement to workers’ mobile phones based on the work that is taking place on the site that day. Upload your own content or use the MindForge short training modules that demonstrate safe and unsafe work practices designed to reduce the most common types of injuries.

For more injury-prevention tips, contact INSURICA today

This article is not intended to be exhaustive nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as legal advice. Readers should contact legal counsel or an insurance professional for appropriate advice. © 2022 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.

Stay Updated

Subscribe to the INSURICA blog and receive the latest news direct to your inbox.

Related Blogs

Enhancing School Security: Practical Strategies for Safer Campuses

June 17th, 2025|Blog, Education|

Enhancing school security is one of the most pressing responsibilities for education leaders today. As school campuses evolve, so too must the systems that protect them. For administrators, safety professionals, and district decision-makers, creating a secure learning environment means taking a proactive, layered approach that includes physical security, training, technology, and community involvement.

5 Common Cybersecurity Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

June 16th, 2025|Blog, Risk Management, Trending|

All organizations, regardless of their size or industry, are at risk of being targeted by cybercriminals. These malicious actors can conduct cyberattacks, leading to significant financial, operational and reputational damage that can be difficult or impossible to recover from. Fortunately, solid cyber hygiene practices can reduce the likelihood of data breaches and other cyber incidents from occurring, and many of these practices are relatively low-cost and easy to implement.

Insurance Coverage Basics For Boatowners

June 15th, 2025|Blog, Personal Insurance|

A small boat, such as a canoe or other un-motorized boat, is typically covered under the personal property portion of your homeowners insurance policy. If you own a larger, faster boat, you'll need a separate boatowners insurance policy. A typical boatowners insurance policy is designed to protect your boat, motor, equipment, and passengers. It affords similar coverages to those you typically have for your car including:

Go to Top