Despite the familiar image of workplace incidents, many deaths occur without an obvious traumatic event
In reality, a sizable share of federally and state-registered job fatalities arise from non-traumatic causes. A significant portion of deaths logged in recent years was linked to cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes that professionals experience during work hours. This pattern mirrors broader concerns about health risks faced by workers in high-demand jobs across North America.
Recent statements from national labor authorities emphasize the need to address this growing health challenge. The goal is clear: reduce fatalities by focusing on prevention, early recognition of health risks, and better workplace health programs. Observers in Canada and the United States note similar concerns about non-accidental deaths at work and stress the importance of proactive health management in the workplace.
Although Alicante has seen a drop in deaths, the province reports a rise in recorded workplace accidents. Data show a total of 19,273 incidents across the state during the previous year, up 2.7% from the year before. Yet, when adjusting for a higher average workforce, the incidence rate shows a decline, indicating improvements in exposure levels and safety measures.
Last year, most workers who were injured were classified as mild, with only a small share considered serious. Reported fatalities numbered 30, a decrease year over year according to the same sources. The notable silver lining is the dramatic reduction in non-traumatic deaths during the pandemic, particularly those caused by cardiovascular problems. Before COVID-19, heart attacks and strokes represented a large fraction of on-the-job deaths; since the pandemic began, researchers have tracked a steep drop, with only a single non-traumatic on-duty fatality documented in 2021.
These figures include cases where professionals died while traveling to or from work, which still account for a portion of the total risks. Excluding these travel-related deaths, non-workplace fatalities within working hours remain a key concern for safety programs and health policies.
Industry groups highlight the need for stronger wellbeing initiatives at work. They argue that improving workplace wellbeing and promoting healthy living habits are essential to prevent non-traumatic fatalities. Leaders in regional business organizations emphasize that occupational risk is not just about physical hazards but also about stress, fatigue, and mental health factors that influence heart health.
There is consensus among unions that the high share of deaths from heart attacks and strokes reflects workplace stress and overload. A regional representative notes that job pressures can worsen mental health, which in turn can affect overall health outcomes. In parallel, union leaders remind that precarious employment and mental health concerns are interconnected, and many cases may not be thoroughly investigated when non-traumatic deaths occur.
In Alicante, a 41-year-old worker’s death prompted further discussion about prevention. Local industry associations point to independent health studies confirming that non-traumatic fatal incidents are not solely caused by occupational risk factors. The recommended approach centers on workplace wellbeing policies and encouraging healthier lifestyles among workers, according to the president of one association.
Construction continues to show the highest rate of workplace incidents. National labor data indicate the construction sector logged the most accidents last year in the province, with thousands of incidents. This was followed by manufacturing and retail sectors, with transportation and public administration also contributing significant numbers. The energy and financial sectors reported far fewer incidents, highlighting how industry dynamics shape risk exposure across the economy.
These trends underscore a broader message for employers and policymakers in Canada and the United States: well-designed health programs, safety culture, and mental health support can mitigate both traumatic and non-traumatic work-related deaths. A comprehensive approach to wellbeing—encompassing physical fitness, stress management, and safer work practices—appears essential for protecting workers across varied sectors.
Notes for readers: statistics reflect national and regional reporting from labor authorities and professional bodies. Ongoing improvements in data collection and reporting will help better track the true impact of non-traumatic health risks in the workplace and inform targeted prevention strategies. (Source: Ministry of Labor, Invassat, and regional unions)
Ambulance crews and first responders play a critical role when incidents occur, underscoring the urgency of rapid medical intervention in the workplace. Their work is a constant reminder of the stakes involved in maintaining healthy and safe work environments for all employees.
Overall, the focus remains clear: reducing preventable deaths through proactive health organizations, better stress management, and a strong safety culture. Employers across North America are encouraged to implement robust wellness policies and to promote healthier lifestyles that support cardiovascular health among workers. This approach benefits not only individual employees but also organizations that rely on a healthier, more resilient workforce.