According to the most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 4,405 work-related fatalities in 2013. Although the number of fatal workplace accidents is down 25 percent over the past decade, there is still a large number of workers in particular industries who remain at risk. Here are six of the most dangerous jobs in existence today.
Construction Worker
Average Annual Salary: $35,020
Laborers in the construction industry are at risk because they often work with a variety of potentially dangerous equipment including power tools and heavy machinery. In addition, some construction job duties are performed at dangerous heights. In 2013, there were 215 fatal injuries per every 100,000 workers in this industry.
Fisherman
Average Annual Salary: $33,430
Fishers and other workers in the fishing industry put their lives at risk every time they go to work. These laborers work on boats in sometimes treacherous conditions. Hauling and lifting heavy equipment on a moving boat, combined with the unpredictability of environmental conditions makes fishing a dangerous way to earn a living. In 2013, 27 workers in this industry lost their lives.
Logger
Average Annual Salary: $33,630
Logging is an extremely dangerous career because loggers work with massive equipment in unstable conditions and often in very isolated areas. Not only is cutting the trees down extremely dangerous, loggers must also work with heavy logging machines as well. The slightest mistake can be fatal in this industry — in 2013, 59 loggers were killed in work-related incidents.
Miner
Average Annual Salary: $62,620
Mining is yet another extremely dangerous profession. Although conditions have improved over the years thanks to modern mining technology, miners still risk their lives simply by reporting to work every day. Miners face the risk of explosions, equipment failure, mine collapse, fires and other hazards. There were 16 fatal mining industry injuries sustained in 2013.
Farmer
Average Annual Salary: $69,300
Farmers and other agricultural workers also face major hazards when it comes to everyday job duties. While the most obvious hazard for farmers is the heavy machinery they operate on a daily basis, like combines, balers and choppers. Farmers are also at high risk for tractor-related accidents. And, let’s not forget silo suffocation and bull goring. In 2013, there were 220 agricultural workers who died from farming-related accidents.
Truck Driver
Average Annual Salary: $38,200
Driving is a dangerous career for obvious reasons. Truck drivers work long hours, with few opportunities for an adequate rest. Professional drivers are at high risk for vehicle collisions and rollovers, whether caused by their own negligence or another driver on the road. 2013 statistics for fatal truck driving accidents are staggering — 748 drivers were killed while performing their job duties.
If you’re concerned about danger at work Bachus & Schanker Law say to consider consultation with a law group or Colorado Workers’ Compensation Attorney to learn your rights and how to protect yourself and your family if the worst were to occur. Becoming educated about the safety regulations for your industry is a good first step when it comes to making your job a safer place. Although many careers will remain dangerous, modern innovations have contributed a great deal toward workplace safety.
This article is from Brooke Chaplan, a freelance writer and blogger. She lives and works out of her home in Los Lunas, New Mexico. She loves the outdoors and spends most her time hiking, biking and gardening. For more information contact Brooke via Twitter @BrookeChaplan.
