Think you have a tough job? Next time you think about that pile of files you have to dig through, keep in mind your biggest risk for the day may be a paper cut. The Bureau of Labor and Statistics studied risk factors and death rates among all jobs in the United States. That study produced a list of the most dangerous jobs in America.
Looking at The Numbers
The death rates for the deadliest jobs in America range up to 127 per 1000 workers. The number one cause of death among workers—roughly 40 percent—were related to transportation. This includes car accidents, airplane crashes, and overturned work vehicles. The second leading cause of death among all workers was violence. Although numbers have dropped over the last two years, 767 workers died due to violence. This amount includes work-related suicides. Roughly 15 percent of the total deaths were attributed to slips and falls. Of all the deaths 92 percent of those who died were men, though this is attributed to the fact that a higher percentage of men are employed in dangerous jobs.
But Which Jobs are Worst?
All of these jobs fall in the top 10 most dangerous jobs in the United States:
Logging Workers:
In 2011, loggers jumped to the top of the list for most dangerous job. Men and women known as lumberjacks are responsible for cutting down trees, transporting them to mills and preparing the wood. In 2011, there were 65 deaths. These workers spend a lot of time up in the air and around heavy machinery.
Fishermen:
The men and women who commit themselves to days and weeks on boats slipped from the number one stop as most dangerous job in America after several years at the front. In 2011, there were 117 deaths per 1000 workers. Fishing involves several dangerous factors, including transportation, inclement weather, and heavy machinery.
Airplane Pilots:
It may be surprising for many people that airline pilots rank very close to the top of the list of most dangerous jobs. In 2011 there were 56 pilots killed on the job. Aside from the risk of an airplane crash or an act of violence, pilots are at risk for injury or death due to heavy falling objects.
Steel Iron and Steel Workers:
Steel and ironworkers sit in the fifth slot. The men and women employed in this profession deal with heavy machinery, hot tools, and difficult working conditions on a daily basis. When you consider steel workers dealing in construction you add additional risks including falling and transportation. In 2011, 18 steel workers were killed on the job. Despite being slightly lower on the fatality list, workers in this profession have the highest injury rate.
Reducing the Numbers
Whenever accidents happen on the job, the Occupation Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) keeps track. OSHA is responsible for creating rules and regulations and overseeing the implementation of safety precautions. Following these precautions can reduce the risk of death and injury. To prevent injuries OSHA recommends several steps—
- Plan ahead
- Provide the right equipment
- Train workers to use equipment safely.
For more information on OSHA standards, read more here.
You can help prevent injuries and deaths by ensuring that your equipment is working properly and that your workers are protected from falls and injuries. Check out some work safety equipment that is built to help lower injury rates. Don’t be afraid to share this information with your boss; your insight may someday save your life or the life of one of your peers.
Blane Lebronc writes for a wide variety of businesses looking to boost brand awareness through thoughtfull writing. He is a full-time writer and editor who produces content on a large number of topics.