RIGHT-TO-WORK LAWS AND FATALITIES IN CONSTRUCTION

Using state-level data, 2001 through 2009, I test whether union density and right-to-work (RTW) laws predict worker fatalities in either the construction industry or in construction occupations. For both indices, higher levels of unionization equate with lower fatality rates. Right-to-work laws show no direct association with fatality rates. However, the interaction between RTW laws and unionization suggests that unions are less effective at protecting member safety in right-to-work states. Overall the findings support the hypothesis that RTW laws result in the underfunding of union safety training or accident prevention programs.