Every career comes with risks. A receptionist might have to deal with irate clients or spend all day typing and answering the phone. A nurse working in a hospital may have to care for those experiencing drug-induced psychosis or may end up exposed to dangerous pathogens.
Professionals generally have to accept a certain degree of risk whenever they take new jobs. However, there is little question that certain careers come with far more risk for workers than others.
What jobs have the highest rates of injury or death?
Construction
While there are numerous federal and state regulations set up to protect construction workers, they still face serious hazards at work. Doing their jobs at an elevation or below grade is dangerous. Exposure to electricity, working near heavy machinery and environmental exposure are also all serious risk factors. Construction remains one of the deadliest professions and a job in which career-ending injuries may be just one mistake away.
Transportation and warehousing
For many professionals, the biggest job risk they may have is the responsibility to occasionally drive for their employers. Those working in the transportation sector may spend most or all of their shifts in traffic. They are at risk of collisions and injuries related to heavy lifting. Warehouse workers are also vulnerable. Proximity to machinery such as forklifts and the possibility of items tumbling off of shelving units can make warehouse work relatively hazardous.
Agriculture, fishing, hunting and forestry
Those who work with natural resources are among those who are the most vulnerable on the job. The forestry profession sees many people injured or killed by equipment such as chainsaws and falling trees. Transportation issues are also quite common.
Hunting and fishing can be dangerous because of the equipment, exposure to animals and environmental factors. Agriculture is dangerous due to chemical exposure, animal behavior and tractors, which are a leading cause of injury and death for agricultural professionals.
Other careers with a particularly elevated risk of injury or death include:
- Wholesale trade
- Professional/business services
- Other services (but not public administration)
- Leisure and hospitality work
- Manufacturing
- Retail jobs
- Educational and health services
Many of these workplaces may hire unionized workers. Despite the advocacy of the union and safety regulations, professionals could end up hurt on the job or worse.
Workers in those particularly dangerous professions. Any injured employee may have the right to request medical and disability benefits through workers’ compensation if they get hurt on the clock. Being proactive about avoiding job hazards and knowing one’s rights can go a long way toward the protection of workers in high-risk careers.