Abstract
Introduction: This paper analyzes the evolution of fatal and non-fatal work accidents in
Ecuador from an economic and legal perspective, qualitatively assessing the impact and effectiveness
of public policies on occupational safety and health in the country. A retrospective study was
carried out on work accidents registered in Ecuador during the period 2006 - 2016. Among the
main results, it is observed that work accidents have increased by 53.6% from 2006 to 2016. The
mortality rate decreased (R 2 = 0.303), like the fatality rate (R 2 = 0.496). The GDP as of 2011 has
decreased, reaching negative values in 2016. It is concluded that legal regulations on occupational
safety and health issues for the period 2011-2015 have reduced mortality and fatality rates.
Keywords: Occupational accidents, occupational diseases, GDP, national legislation
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