The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that workplace accidents and injuries have been decreasing for most of the past 13 years — and that incident rates continue to decline.

According to the agency’s most recent report, there were about 2.9 million nonfatal occupational injuries and illnesses that private employers reported to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in 2015. That equals about three reported cases for every 100 full-time workers in the United States, making the lowest rate seen since 2002.

What’s responsible for the decrease in occupational injuries?

OSHA officials believe that this positive trend is due partially to better safety procedures and training on the part of employers. However, contributing factors might also include a declining oil and gas industry, which has historically been associated with higher rates of workplace accidents and injuries.

Additionally, workers who are less rushed at their jobs are more likely to take proper safety precautions when completing tasks, and are also less likely to be fatigued. And, service jobs —which make up an increasing portion of the labor force — tend to be less hazardous than construction and manufacturing jobs. In all, six industry segments saw a notable decrease in occupational injuries compared to 2014, including mining, oil and gas production, quarrying, manufacturing, warehousing and transportation.

Despite these improved numbers, OSHA officials say they believe 2.9 million injuries nationwide to be too many, and that businesses and organizations should continue to emphasize workplace safety for their employees.

If you or someone close to you has been seriously injured on the job, speak with an experienced Atlanta personal injury attorney at McMenamy Law LLC.