International Snow Science Workshop Proceedings - Montana State University Library

Item: FATAL OCCUPATIONAL INJURIES OF AVALANCHE WORKERS IN THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA - 1950 TO 2026

• • Title: FATAL OCCUPATIONAL INJURIES OF AVALANCHE WORKERS IN THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA - 1950 TO 2026

    Proceedings: Proceedings, International Snow Science Workshop, Whistler, BC, Canada, 2026

    Authors:

    • Ethan Greene  [ Colorado Avalanche Information Center, Denver, Colorado, USA ]
    • Spencer Logan  [ Colorado Avalanche Information Center, Denver, Colorado, USA ]
    • Joe Obad  [ Canadian Avalanche Association, Revelstoke, British Columbia, Canada ]
    • Brendan Martland  [ Canadian Avalanche Association, Revelstoke, British Columbia, Canada ]
    • Bruce Jamieson  [ Department of Civil Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada ]

    Date: 2026-09-28

    Abstract: People working in avalanche safety are exposed to significant hazards at work. Despite the potential for harm, fatal workplace accidents involving avalanche workers are uncommon. While the total number of fatal accidents is relatively small, the fatal occupational injury rate is relatively high compared to other occupations. We present an updated dataset of avalanche worker deaths, examine trends discussed in Greene et al. (2014), and compare the rate of fatal occupational injuries of avalanche workers with industry sectors tracked by government agencies in the United States and Canada. Our estimates of annual fatal occupational injuries per 100,000 workers place the avalanche industry near the top of the list of high-risk occupations, but the size of the industry and the number of accidents make firm conclusions difficult. We present these data to promote industry discussions on acceptable risk in the workplace, professional training programs, and risk management strategies for managers and staff in avalanche safety operations.

    Object ID: ISSW2026_FS1.5.pdf

    DOI: https://doi.org/10.15788/1790098398

    Language of Article: English

    Presenter(s): Ethan Greene

    Keywords: worker safety, risk management, fatal occupational injuries, avalanche accidents

    Page Number(s): 940 - 947

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