Recent data shows that SpaceX’s Starbase facility in Texas reported significantly higher worker injury rates in 2024 compared to other aerospace manufacturers. The site logged a Total Recordable Incident Rate (TRIR) of 4.27 per 100 employees, substantially above the aerospace industry average of 1.6. This figure suggests that Starbase workers experienced more frequent injuries than those at similar facilities.
Much of this concern stems from Starbase’s intense work environment, driven by the rapid development and testing of the Starship rocket. The site also recorded thousands of restricted-duty and lost workdays last year due to injuries. In contrast, SpaceX’s other facilities, such as Hawthorne and Bastrop, reported lower, yet still notable, incident rates.
Safety advocates have flagged the data as a cause for concern, urging closer scrutiny of working conditions. While some experts argue that TRIR has limitations, the numbers reveal challenges SpaceX faces in maintaining safety while pursuing ambitious spaceflight goals.
Key Points:
- Starbase’s injury rate in 2024 was 4.27 per 100 workers, nearly 3x the aerospace industry average.
- Over 3,500 restricted-duty days and 650 lost workdays were recorded at the site.
- The intense pace of Starship development may be contributing to worker safety issues.
- Other SpaceX sites had lower but still notable incident rates, including Hawthorne and Bastrop.
- Safety experts have raised red flags, calling for greater oversight and improved workplace protections.
