New York to Provide $5M in Grants to Prevent Workplace Injuries

New York state is providing $5 million in grants to improve safety conditions in low-wage industries.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced the program Saturday after participating in a Labor Day parade in New York City. The Democratic governor says the grants will be given to not-for-profit organizations. The effort targets workplace hazards in industries with high rates of injury that often employ immigrant workers.

He cited studies estimating that workplace injuries statewide cost $10 billion a year. Some of that cost stems from workers’ compensation payments, but also includes lost wages and the cost of medical care.

Cuomo says low-wage workers are particularly vulnerable to workplace hazards. Targeted industries include construction, agriculture, dry cleaning, landscaping and hospitality.