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Workplace Safety and Worker Productivity: Evidence from the MINER Act

Author

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  • Ling Li

Abstract

This study examines the effect of safety enforcement on workplace injuries and worker productivity in coal mines. The author exploits the introduction of a “flagrant†violation standard—with penalties of up to 0.22 million dollars per violation—established by the Mine Improvement and New Emergency Response (MINER) Act of 2006. Using an event-study model, the author finds that after the issuance of a flagrant violation, the workplace injuries decreased significantly by 20% and miner productivity decreased by 6%. The results suggest that the monetary value of the productivity loss is 1.3 times the costs saved from fewer injuries, which highlights the costs of workplace safety regulations.

Suggested Citation

  • Ling Li, 2022. "Workplace Safety and Worker Productivity: Evidence from the MINER Act," ILR Review, Cornell University, ILR School, vol. 75(1), pages 117-138, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:ilrrev:v:75:y:2022:i:1:p:117-138
    DOI: 10.1177/0019793920931495
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    References listed on IDEAS

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