2008 NH Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System: Estimating workplace injuries ands workers' compensation claims using a first-time supplement

Background: NH wants precise knowledge of the incidence and characteristics of workplace injuries, and how any medical treatment was paid including by workers' compensation (WC). The objective of this study was to use a supplement to the NH Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) (n=6,892) to estimate annual injuries. Methods: Results were derived from a first-time supplement to the 2008 NH BRFSS, statistically designed as representative of NH residents. Results: Responses indicated that 4.9 percent (95% CI= 4.0, 5.7) of NH workers were injured in 2008. Of those likely eligible, 47.4 percent (95% CI= 36.6, 58.3) had some or all of treatment costs paid by WC. Those employed in construction and transportation had higher rates; lower rates, in finance and insurance. Risk in manufacturing and health-care was moderate. Associated injury attributes included male, younger age, less education, mid-range income, and higher BMI. Caution is advised in interpreting results when stratified by attributes, especially industrial type, because of large CIs. Conclusions: Results of this first-time, workplace-injury supplement give a more comprehensive estimate of the number and demographic characteristics of NH injuries. Variation in injury prevalence exists among industrial type. The number of injuries in any particular state likely is correlated with its industrial mix. However, there is indication that some similarities exist for treatment costs being paid in full or part by WC for about half of injuries. Evidence of validity exists for survey sampling design. Close correspondence to the actual number of WC claims in 2008 was found.