Every job comes with risks, but some are inherently more dangerous than others. Desk jockeys may be more prone to suffering cardiovascular problems, tension headaches and poor circulation, but some professions are considered downright hazardous when it comes to workplace accidents and fatalities. Jobs that involve extreme weather, grueling hours, heavy equipment, toxic chemicals and harsh environments increase the danger level by a few notches.
According to the most recent statistics available from the United States Department of Labor, there were 4,836 work-related deaths in 2015, not including those who died while serving in the armed forces. Certain industries dominated the list for most fatal workplace accidents, and the lion’s share of these jobs are performed by men.
Here’s a look at some of the most dangerous professions today.
Logging
Statistically speaking, logging is the most hazardous industry in the United States with a fatal accident rate of 132 per 100,000 workers. To put this in context, logging is nearly 40 times more dangerous than the average job. Experts say that one of the biggest dangers faced by workers is hidden tree limbs and branches that can suddenly topple.
Commercial fishing
Falls overboard and vessel malfunctions/sinkings are the primary dangers to commercial fisherman. The industry’s fatality rate is 29 times greater than the national average, according to a recent analysis. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that more than half of all commercial fishing deaths are a result of a “vessel disaster.” The number of deaths has been steadily increasing over the years, to a staggering 127 per 100,000 workers.
Pilots and aircraft engineers
Charged with operating and repairing planes, helicopters and other aircraft, pilots and flight engineers are exposed to numerous hazards. Crashes and other dangers set the stage for a high fatality rate of 40 per 100,000 workers.
Sanitation workers
Maybe the biggest surprise on the list of most dangerous jobs is “sanitation worker”. Sanitation workers deal with unwieldy hazardous materials on a daily basis, as they collect, compress and transport refuse and recyclables. This occupation is another dangerous profession with approximately 39 deaths per 100,000 workers.
Offshore drilling
Offshore rig workers are seven times more likely to be killed on the job than those employed in other professions, reports the CDC. Many drilling operations take place in remote locales with rough seas and harsh conditions that make it challenging for emergency evacuations. Offshore rig workers often suffer catastrophic injuries from fires, machinery malfunctions and explosions.
Maritime accident attorney in Louisiana
If you were seriously harmed or lost someone you love in an oil rig or commercial fishing accident, you may be entitled to significant compensation for mental anguish, lost wages, physical disability, loss of future earnings and medical costs. Maritime accidents and related injuries are governed by a unique set of regulations and laws. Bart Bernard is an experienced offshore injury lawyer serving the Lafayette and Baton Rouge communities who can outline your rights to legal damages. When you are saddled with medical bills and life-changing injuries, you need to focus on your recovery, not the litigation process.
For a free consultation and case evaluation with a Louisiana attorney who specializes in maritime law, please call our law offices today.
Additional Resources on Dangerous Jobs:
- Forbes, America’s Deadliest Jobs https://www.forbes.com/pictures/efkk45kifl/no-1-fishers-and-related-fishing-workers-3/#7ef763d0750b
- CNBC, The 10 most dangerous jobs for men https://www.cnbc.com/2017/01/04/the-10-most-dangerous-jobs-for-men.html
- Ranker, The Most Dangerous Jobs in America https://www.ranker.com/list/the-most-dangerous-jobs-in-america/american-jobs
- FiskUSA, 3 POSSIBLE DANGERS TO OFFSHORE OIL RIGS https://fiskusa.com/blog/offshore-oilfield-consultants/3-possible-dangers-to-offshore-oil-rigs/
