Research Paper: An Epidemiological Study of Fatal and Non-Fatal Industrial Accidents in Semnan, Iran.

Background: Due to the importance of industrial accidents in workplaces, the current study aimed at epidemiologically investigating occupational accidents in some industrial sites in Semnan, Iran. Materials and Methods: The current descriptive-analytical study was conducted on all accidents taking place from 2014 to 2016 in some industrial sites in Semnan. The data were extracted from the Department of Labor and Social Affairs of Semnan. SPSS software version 21 was employed to analyze data using Chi-square and logistic regression tests. Results: The mean and standard deviation of workers age in non-fatal and fatal accidents were 30.28±13 and 32±11.21 years, respectively. There was no significant difference in variables such as gender, workers experience, marital status, type of industry (construction, mining, rubber, and agriculture), and educational level between fatal and non-fatal accidents (P>0.05). A significant relationship was observed between insurance coverage status and fatal accidents (P=0.002). The rate of fatal accidents was 8.4 times more in 2015 than 2014 (P=0.006; odds ratio=4.8). Conclusion: The rate of accidents in industrial sites can be significantly reduced by taking advantage of accident prevention programs and training courses. Occupational safety and health program can promote the performance of workers. In this regard, the development and conduction of industrial emergency plans can reduce fatal accident rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]