The U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics recently released lost work time stats from injuries and illnesses: About 1.7 million injuries and illnesses required workers to take time off work for 2000, the same as 1999.

While truck drivers and electricians missed a median of nine days of work, plumbers, pipefitters and steamfitters lost a median eight days of work. Nearly 15 percent were gone for only one day after the incident, but 24.4 percent were absent 31 days or more due to accident or illness.

Construction laborers and carpenters also missed a median eight days for injury and illness.

Men had nearly two in three of the injuries. Workers ages 25-44 accounted for the most injuries at 25 percent.

The body part most affected was the trunk, including the back.

Days from work for major injuries were highest for carpal tunnel syndrome (27 days), fractures (20 days) and amputations (18 days).