Abstract

Over the last 10 years, the IRSST has published several statistical studies of the distribution of the relative frequency and severity of CSST-compensated occupational injuries as a function of economic sector and profession. The results of these studies provide a valid basis for the orientation of research projects and workplace interventions, and allow the temporal evolution of the situation to be followed. In addition, these statistics are the only source providing information on all Québec industries and professions. In this study, occupational injury statistics will be compiled from CSST files and Statistics Canada's data drawn from the 1991 census. The main variables of interest are incidence rates, mean duration of compensation, and prevalence rates. Specific indices will be developed for occupational diseases and accidents. Sectoral profiles will distinguish between manual and non-manual workers.

This last distinction has allowed the identification of high-risk sectors that would otherwise have gone undetected. In the present study, it will allow verification of the hypothesis, suggested by other indices, that the frequency of occupational injuries is constantly increasing among non-manual workers.