(NEW YORK CITY) - The New York Committee for Occupational Safety and Health (NYCOSH) has released its annual Construction Fatality Report, revealing a significant increase in Worker deaths across New York State and continued racial disparities in workplace fatalities.

The report found that in New York City, the Worker Fatality Rate increased slightly from 11.5 to 11.6 per 100,000 Workers (24 deaths in 2022 to 30 in 2023).

In New York State, however, there was a concerning 8.3% rate increase to 10.4 per 100,000 Workers - and a 48% increase in State Construction Worker Deaths in just one year (50 deaths in 2022 to 74 in 2023).

“These numbers represent a clear failure of our system to protect Workers,” NYCOSH Executive Director Charlene Obernauer said. “While we have tools like Carlos’ Law and the Scaffold Safety Law, we urgently need increased funding for enforcement and pro-active measures to protect our most vulnerable Workers. Right now, we can act to fully fund staffing at the Department of Buildings and stop giving out free money to contractors across the State that violate Laws meant to keep workers safe.”

According to the report, the New York City Department of Buildings (NYC DOB) lost 119 positions despite a construction boom.

Data from the New York City Comptroller’s Office revealed that in January 2025, the NYC DOB had a vacancy rate of 13.3%, contributing to the overall problem. 

The report also identified Latinx Workers, representing 10% of workforce but 26% of fatalities, as facing disproportionate risk.

Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York President Gary LaBarbera said that while a career in the Construction Industry can offer countless opportunities for hard-working New Yorkers to support their families, make livable wages, and ascend to the Middle Class, the occupation is a naturally hazardous one that requires extra oversight aimed at protecting Workers: “This report serves as a sobering reminder that work remains to be done to prevent deadly accidents at construction sites as best as possible. The New York City Building Trades remains dedicated to our work to promote proper training, safety measures and supervision at construction sites that will help ensure every Tradesperson returns home safely to their families after each shift. Anyone working on any project deserves to feel valued and know that their well-being is a priority. We are committed to making that possible.”

Donato Bianco, Jr. - LIUNA’s Vice President and New England Regional Manager, said the report’s data is clear and compelling - Union construction sites experience fewer fatalities and serious injuries: “This isn’t coincidental. It’s the direct result of comprehensive training programs, rigorous safety standards, empowered Workers who can advocate for themselves, and the partnership we share with our Union contractors. As we look at these sobering statistics, we must acknowledge that cutting corners on Worker safety leads to preventable tragedies.”

To Read This Labor News Story In Its Entirety, Go To: Construction Deaths Surge as Safety Oversight Shrinks: 2025 NYCOSH “Deadly Skyline” Report – NYCOSH