The number of workplace fatalities in New York City has hit its lowest level in almost two decades. 

In 2009, 63 people lost their lives while on the job in the five boroughs, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That's a 30 percent decline from 2008, when 90 people were killed on the job in New York.

Fewer falls at construction sites accounted for much of the decline, with eight fatal falls in 2009 compared to 29 in 2008.

The number one cause of death on the job last year was murder, accounting for 16 fatalities.

Nationwide, the number of workplace fatalies in 2009 was 4,340, a drop of 17 percent from 2008 levels.