Struck-by incidents are on the rise in Michigan and have become the leading cause of workplace deaths investigated by MIOSHA in 2025. As of Aug. 5, struck-by fatalities accounted for 10 of the 22 workplace fatalities reported this year. These preventable tragedies are often the result of contact with moving vehicles, heavy equipment or falling objects on the jobsite.

Employers are responsible for ensuring workers are protected from struck-by hazards. This includes maintaining safe work zones, enforcing traffic control procedures and making sure workers remain visible and alert throughout their shifts.

a tool and die manufacturer based in Grand Rapids, has been awarded the MIOSHA’s Consultation Education and Training (CET) Silver Award in recognition of its outstanding efforts to protect the safety and health of its workforce.

Recent 2025 struck-by fatalities in Michigan:

Jan 16: A 41-year-old laborer was fatally injured when a trailer detached from a utility vehicle and struck a metal pole that penetrated the cab.

April 15: A 64-year-old truck driver was fatally struck by a rolling rear trailer after unloading.

June 16: A 27-year-old laborer was killed wJuly 2: A 47-year-old laborer was pinned between a concrete mixing truck and a dumpster.

July 4: A 56-year-old co-owner was struck by a coworker’s personal vehicle in a parking lot and died from injuries two days later.

Struck-by safety tips:

Be aware of moving equipment. Stay alert around vehicles and machinery. Operators may not see you.

Use trained spotters. Especially when backing up or navigating tight spaces.

Establish clear zones. Keep pedestrian-only areas separate from equipment and traffic paths.

Follow traffic control plans. Use cones, barricades and signage to protect work zones.

Communicate clearly. Use radios, hand signals or flaggers to stay coordinated.

Wear high-visibility gear. Reflective clothing is critical in low-light or high-traffic environments.

Slow down. Whether operating equipment, walking or driving, slowing down saves lives.