Apprenticeship Training Relates to Safer Workplaces and Fewer Injuries

According to a recent report by a first-of-its-kind study by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I). Apprenticeship programs could reduce serious worker injuries and workers’ compensation claims, showing that apprentices are safer.

“Apprentices are safer because they’re learning all the proper techniques,” said Peter Guzman, manager of L&I’s Apprenticeship Program. “Now the science backs us up.”

The results of the study come at a time of expansion for registered apprenticeship programs in Washington, with 22,000 workers currently participating in apprenticeships across about 200 registered programs in the state. Construction trades such as carpenter, ironworker, and electrician have the most active participants, there are growing programs in the high-tech, aerospace, and medical assistant fields.

The study, by L&I’s Safety and Health Assessment and Research for Prevention (SHARP) Program, linked registered apprenticeship data with plumber certification information. Then, it compared worker compensation claims between 2000-2018.

The findings show workers’ compensation claim rates were 31 percent lower among journey level plumbers with apprenticeship training compared to plumbers who did not complete an apprenticeship.

“This study provides support for what many believe: There are fewer injuries among apprentices,” said Dr. Dave Bonauto, SHARP manager.

L&I’s Apprenticeship Program is spreading the word about the study’s findings. Program representatives have presented the study to state and national apprenticeship organizations.

“The connection to worker safety is more evidence of the value of apprenticeship programs,” Guzman said. “These programs prepare people for well-paying, meaningful careers.”

At NWRTW we must be vigilant regarding all work-related injuries, and work closely with Labor and Industries. Contact us to learn more.