article · Forensic Science International Reports
Workplace fatalities are commonly reported as traumatic occupational accidents; however, deaths occurring on workplace premises may also result from natural or intentional causes. Autopsy-based data from North Africa remain scarce. This study aimed to describe the medico-legal patterns of workplace deaths and to explore factors associated with the main categories. We conducted a retrospective autopsy-based study of all deaths occurring on workplace premises within a regional forensic jurisdiction in North Africa between 2019 and 2023. Sociodemographic, occupational, clinical, and forensic variables were analyzed using Chi-square tests and unadjusted odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). A total of 131 cases were identified (mean age 44.9 ± 14.9 years; 93% male). Accidental deaths accounted for 62.5%, natural deaths 29.7%, suicides 6.1%, and homicides 1.5%. Accidental deaths were more frequent among workers under 50 years, those employed in agriculture or construction sectors, and professional drivers. Natural deaths were significantly associated with medical history and smoking, while psychiatric history was associated with suicide. Social security coverage was associated with hospital transfer. Workplace deaths extend beyond traumatic injuries, with nearly one-third attributable to natural cardiovascular causes. Distinct epidemiological patterns characterize each medico-legal category. Forensic autopsy remains essential for accurate medico-legal classification and the development of targeted prevention strategies. • Autopsy-based analysis of workplace deaths over a five-year period • Workplace fatalities include a substantial proportion of natural deaths • Cardiovascular causes predominate among natural workplace deaths • Distinct medico-legal patterns differentiate natural and traumatic deaths • Forensic autopsy is essential for accurate classification and prevention strategies
This page summarises published work. The authoritative version sits with the publisher.
DOI: 10.1016/j.fsir.2026.100471
Is something wrong with this record? Report it or request removal.
Discussion
Have you built on this work, tried to replicate it, or seen it applied in practice? Share what you know. Verified researchers and MARATTO™ domain experts can open a discussion, and any member can reply. Contributions are reviewed before they appear.
No discussion yet. Open the first thread.
New to MARATTO™? Create a free account.
