San Jose, California–The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics rates the U.S. semiconductor industry as one of the safest industries with the lowest rate of work-related injuries and illnesses in its recently released ‘1999 Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses’.

In 1999, semiconductor workers experienced the lowest rate of work injuries and illnesses ever recorded for this industry–2.2 cases per 100 full-time workers. This rate was surpassed by only one other industry among the 208 durable goods manufacturing industries included in the annual survey–telephone and telegraph apparatus manufacturing.

“These excellent results reflect the ongoing efforts of the U.S. semiconductor industry to provide a healthy and safe workplace,” says Semiconductor Industry Association President George Scalise.

Factors responsible for the industry’s excellent safety and health record include the nature of high-tech manufacturing, involving continuous monitoring for chemicals with low risks of exposures, and commitment of the industry to participate in the exchange of safety, health, and environmental data through various national and international organizations.