It’s no secret that certain occupations carry higher risk factors than others. So, what are the most dangerous jobs in America, and why are they so dangerous? According to an updated report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are two ways to answer this question:
- By the overall number of on-the-job fatalities
- By the fatal work injury rate
Using these factors, researchers have compiled a list of America’s five most dangerous jobs.
Refuse and recyclable material collectors
Because refuse and recyclable material collectors spend so much time operating commercial vehicles, they are at a higher risk for traffic accidents. Additionally, these workers are exposed to various types of pollutants and contaminants almost daily, which can cause serious illness — and even death. With 30 fatal injuries and 1,340 non-fatal severe injuries in 2017, this is America’s fifth most dangerous occupation.
Roofers
While falls, slips, and trips are a hazard in any occupation, they are a particularly dangerous risk factor for roofers. Because these laborers often work on ladders, scaffolds, or roofs, falling can result in devastating injuries. Moreover, roofers are at risk for heat stroke and other heat-related illnesses during the year’s hottest months. In 2017, the roofing industry saw 91 fatal injuries and 2,810 nonfatal injuries.
Aircraft pilots and flight engineers
Aircraft pilots and flight engineers are often under immense stress and pressure on the job. As a result, these workers can quickly become mentally and physically exhausted, meaning they are at a higher risk for transportation accidents. According to the BLS, the total number of fatal injuries for pilots in 2017 amounted to 59 incidents, while the overall number of non-fatal injuries was 630.
Logging Workers
Because of the nature of the work, logging is an inherently dangerous occupation. Loggers are expected to operate industrial machinery such as chainsaws, harvesters, and commercial vehicles daily. Additionally, workers perform labor that is extremely strenuous and physically demanding. Because loggers often work in remote locations, medical facilities are difficult to reach during a severe accident. In 2017, the logging industry saw 55 fatal injuries and 350 non-fatal severe injuries.
Fishers and related fishing workers
Overall, fishers and related fishing workers experienced the highest rates of on-the-job fatalities in 2017. Laborers face many hazards daily, such as slippery decks, extreme weather, and heavy-duty industrial gear. Also, fishers often work in boats out at sea, where injured individuals cannot seek immediate medical attention. Unfortunately, a significant majority of worker deaths are from drowning accidents. According to the BLS, the fishing industry saw 41 fatal injuries and 120 non-fatal injuries in 2017.
Contact a New York City Work Injury Lawyer
If you or someone you know has been seriously or fatally injured at work, you may be entitled to financial compensation for treatment, lost wages, medical bills, and more. At Hach & Rose, LLP, our experienced New York workplace injury attorneys will fight for justice and work around the clock to obtain the compensation you deserve.