Hospitality industry trends in workers’ compensation and liability

The hospitality industry continues to be a major driver of U.S. job growth, projected to generate one in every eight new positions by 2033, over 822,000 new roles. However, this expansion also brings heightened workplace safety challenges. With an injury and illness rate of 4.3 cases per 100 employees, the leisure and hospitality sector surpasses the private industry average, creating significant loss exposure. For hotels specifically, the average workers’ compensation claim cost of $9,500 translates to a potential $33.6 million in annual losses.

As the industry grows, understanding and addressing injury trends will be vital for employers, insurers, and policymakers. Most hotel worker injuries stem from cumulative trauma—repetitive strain and poor ergonomics, and from slips, trips, and falls caused by everyday hazards like wet floors or poor lighting. Proactive safety practices, early intervention, and ergonomic awareness can help protect employees and reduce rising costs, strengthening both workforce well-being and business resilience.