As Workers’ Memorial Day approaches on April 28, we pause to honor the lives of those who have died due to workplace injuries and illnesses and to reaffirm our collective commitment to ensuring safer working conditions. Workers’ Memorial Day was first observed on April 28,1970, during a time when about 38 workers in the U.S. died from job-related injuries, and many more suffered from serious lung conditions and other work-related illnesses. While significant progress has been made since then, the sobering reality is that work-related injuries happen to about 15 individuals everyday. This annual day of remembrance serves as a powerful reminder of the vital need for strong safety standards, effective regulations, and ongoing advocacy.
In Georgia, as in many other states, strides have been taken to improve workplace safety—but pressing challenges remain. In honor of Worker’s Memorial Day we want to shine a light on the progress made and legislative developments
Georgia’s Workplace Safety
Georgia’s economy thrives on the strength of a diverse and dedicated labor force, spanning key industries such as manufacturing, construction, agriculture, and healthcare. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the state reported 207 fatal work injuries in 2023. Although this marks a gradual decline compared to previous years, the number is still a sobering reminder of the risks many workers face—and the ongoing importance of prioritizing health and safety in every workplace.
Transportation incidents, exposure to harmful substances, falls, and contact with equipment remain among the leading causes of workplace fatalities across the state. These tragedies disproportionately affect workers in high-risk industries and those in marginalized or underserved communities, where safety gaps and limited access to protective resources can further compound the dangers. This includes temporary workers, immigrants, and gig economy participants—who face elevated risks due to inadequate training, language barriers, and unclear employment classifications that hinder oversight and access to benefits.
Industries with the highest fatality rates in Georgia continue to be:
- Construction
- Transportation and warehousing
- Agriculture and forestry
- Manufacturing
While Georgia’s overall workplace injury rate has declined over the past decade certain sectors continue to report higher-than-average incident rates. These persistent risks underscore the need for targeted safety interventions, ongoing training, and stronger support systems for at-risk workers.
Recent Legislative Changes:
In 2023, Georgia made modest updates to its Workers’ Compensation laws, including slight increases to the maximum weekly benefits for temporary total disability (TTD), permanent partial disability (PPD), and temporary partial disability (TPD). The compensation cap for surviving spouses without dependents saw a nominal increase as well. Additionally, the State Board of Workers’ Compensation has announced procedural changes effective July 1, 2024. While these include modifications to the claims process and updates ostensibly intended to address medical access and timelines, they represent incremental adjustments rather than the comprehensive reform injured workers truly need.
Georgia’s workers’ compensation system still lags behind many neighboring states in providing comprehensive protection for injured workers. While recent changes represent small steps forward, there remains significant room for improvement to ensure workers receive the rights and fair compensation they deserve. However, each update creates momentum for more meaningful reform in the future!
At Poirier Law Firm, we stand with Georgia’s workers and their families as advocates for positive change. Whether you’re navigating a complex claim, struggling to access care, or coping with the tragic loss of a loved one, you don’t have to go through it alone. Our team brings deep experience, compassion, and tenacity to every case, working not just for individual clients but toward a better system for all Georgia workers. If you or someone you know has been impacted by a workplace injury or fatality, contact Poirier Law Firm today for a free consultation. Let us help you seek justice, find clarity, and move forward – both personally and as part of the broader effort to strengthen workers’ rights in our state!