Urgent: Fatal Workplace Incidents Rise Among Workers Over 80
UPDATE: New reports reveal a troubling trend: workplace fatalities among workers aged 80 and over are on the rise, with 67 deaths recorded since 2020 in the United States, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). This alarming escalation emphasizes the urgent need for improved safety measures for older workers who continue to toil in various professions.
The case of Ralph Scott, an 80-year-old rare books curator at East Carolina University, serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the risks faced by older employees. Scott tragically succumbed to complications from a fall at work in 2022. Despite appearing healthy and active, his condition deteriorated after the incident. His wife, Nancy Scott, reflects on his dedication: “He was doing what he loved.”
The rising fatalities among older workers, while overall workplace deaths have declined, raise significant concerns for families and communities. The share of fatalities involving those aged 65 and older surged from 9.4% in 2003 to 14.3% in 2023, as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This statistic underscores the importance of recognizing the contributions and challenges faced by older employees in today’s workforce.
Family members of deceased workers express their emotional struggles. Jack Hohwald, an 85-year-old bus driver, was fatally struck by another bus in January 2025, leaving behind a community that honored him with tributes. His daughter, Diane Gumpper, noted, “He didn’t want to die in his rocking chair,” highlighting the deep-seated desire among older workers to stay active and engaged.
Experts warn that while workplace injuries among older adults tend to be less frequent, the consequences are often more severe. Geoffrey Hoffman, an assistant professor at the University of Michigan, emphasizes the importance of encouraging older individuals to remain active, despite the increased risks. “We want people to do the things they love,” he stated, countering fears about falls and injuries.
The latest data from the CDC indicates a staggering 75% increase in deaths from falls among individuals aged 75 to 84 from 2003 to 2023. This trend highlights a critical need for workplaces to adopt comprehensive safety protocols focusing on older workers’ unique vulnerabilities.
As the population ages and the workforce continues to include older employees, the implications are clear: targeted strategies are needed to protect these invaluable members of society. Shawn Galloway, CEO of ProAct Safety, calls for heightened awareness and effective training to prevent injuries. He stated, “We’ve been calling out the need for a focus on serious injury and fatality prevention for over a decade.”
The emotional toll on families is significant. Nancy Scott, still grappling with her husband’s passing, fought a lengthy legal battle to secure workers’ compensation benefits. “It prolonged the grieving process considerably,” she shared, highlighting the struggles many families face after losing loved ones in the workplace.
As discussions around workplace safety for older workers gain momentum, the stories of individuals like Ralph Scott and Jack Hohwald serve as poignant reminders of the human impact of this issue. Their legacies challenge society to reconsider how we protect and honor those who continue to contribute to the workforce well into their later years.
In conclusion, the rise in workplace fatalities among older workers is an urgent wake-up call for employers, policymakers, and communities. With a growing elderly workforce, it is imperative to prioritize safety and well-being, ensuring that every worker can continue to pursue their passions without risking their lives.
For more information on contributing to the ongoing discussion surrounding older workers, visit Business Insider’s “80 over 80” series, which shares the experiences of Americans over 80 who continue to work.
