WASHINGTON -- Acting Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health Jonathan L. Snare released the following statement regarding the Characteristics of Lost-Worktime Injuries and Illnesses in 2004 announced Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2005, by the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):

'We're pleased to see the substantial reduction in injuries and illnesses last year that required recovery away from work. That decline, along with the overall decrease in workplace injuries and illnesses from 2003 to 2004, continues to validate OSHA's focus on strong and fair enforcement, outreach, education and compliance assistance, and health and safety partnerships and cooperative programs.

'The insights gained from the BLS data help us to position and enhance our services to workers and employers. We will continue to build on the programs that result in lower injury and illness rates.'