Descriptive occupational morbidity statistics.

In spite of their value to indicate the magnitude of occupational health problems, descriptive occupational morbidity statistics tend to be neglected. The accuracy of occupational morbidity statistics depends on counting the morbid condition as well as the occupational element. At present, there is no clearcut model for counting the occupational element. The International Conferences of Labour Statisticians have contributed greatly to the development of statistics on employment injuries. Such statistics are a by-product of the provision of compensation to workers with occupational injuries and diseases. Statistics which are a by-product of investigation into occupational injuries and diseases followed by intervention seem to have received much less attention. Comments are made on the present situation regarding national statistics on occupational injuries and pneumoconiosis. The statistical issues with respect to work-related diseases and sickness absence are also examined and discussed.