WARNING! Accidents at work among older workers are less frequent, but more serious!

The INRS (National Institute for Research on Security) made the following observation on the 2010 statistics of the French Social Security (CNAMTS) on accidents at work:

Seniors have fewer accidents at work than juniors, but they are more serious.

In France indeed:

– Seniors (over 50 years) account for 23% of the working population and only 16% of accidents but 41% of fatal accidents and 32% of permanent disability

– young workers (under 30) also represent 23% of the workforce, but 34% of accidents, and “only” 12% of fatal accidents and 14% of permanent disabilities.

This means that older, more experienced workers are less likely to be at risk; But that the reduction of their physical faculties (robustness, reflexes, agility) make them more vulnerable.

It should be noted that these figures are derived from the 2010 statistics, where the retirement age was 60 years. This situation can worsen when the retirement age reaches 62 … with prospects at 67 years in a future that would not be so far away, judging what is happening elsewhere in Europe.

This should not be forgotten by those who are obliged, despite their age, to work overseas under conditions that are often more exposed to the risk of occupational accidents, while being less well equipped on medical grounds. One can only recommend to them, before any work, to evaluate well the risk or risks incurred, and the palliative or emergency devices existing on the spot.