Every year thousands of workers in America die due to work-related injuries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics‘ National Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries reported that in there were over 4000 deaths caused by work injuries in 2011 as well as in 2012.
In this post we will discuss 10 of America’s most dangerous and deadly jobs:
- Loggers/Lumberjacks
The job that gets to start off this list is logging. In 2013, 62 loggers died while on the job. Loggers, also known as lumberjacks, are workers who harvest, cut down, and transport wood to processing plants. Loggers often have to perform strenuous labor in very hostile work environment. Unfortunately, loggers jobs are often seasonal and don’t pay very well. There are over 30,000 logging professional currently working in the US. The average salary for a logger is somewhere between, $32,000 to $45,000.
- Fishermen
Just as the discovery show title suggests, fishermen (and fisherwomen) are often after the “Deadliest Catch”. In 2012, there were over 30 work-related fisherman fatalities.
Fishing has always been a hazardous occupation, especially fishing professionals who go shellfishing or crab fishing. Fishermen often get paid a substantial amount of money, which is why they often overlook the dangers and the fact that most fishing jobs are seasonal.
- Airplane Pilots & Engineers
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Airplane pilots and engineers have the third most deadliest jobs is America. Pilots and airplane engineers face the dangers of falling heavy objects, malfunctioning equipment, and of course failing engines. In 2012 over 70 airplane pilots and engineers died due to work-related accidents.
- Roofers
Roofers repair, maintain, and install roofs. Unfortunately, this means that they work up high and even work through the summer heat. They are require to wear safety gear and be cautious, but unfortunately, that isn’t always enough. In 2012 there were 70 work-related roofer deaths
- Structural Iron and Steel Workers
Structural iron and steel workers mold, set, and handle metal construction materials. These type of professionals have to work high up on buildings, work with heavy materials, and do a lot of welding work. Unfortunately, even with safety gear and harnesses readily available for workers everywhere, there were over 20 work-related fatalities in 2012.
- Trash and Recyclable Material Collectors
Trash and recyclable material collectors have to constantly handle hazardous material, drive and walk through traffic, and have to work with heavy equipment. Considering the constant dangers they face, it’s no surprise there were over 20 work-related deaths reported on 2012.
- Electrical Power-line Installers and Repairers (Linemen)
Electrical power-line installers and repairers (Linemen) install, maintain, and repair electrical cables and wires as well as electricity poles. The main danger they face is electricity and unfortunately it’s not something they can avoid. In 2012 there were over 20 electrical work-related fatalities.
- Truck Drivers
Truck drivers have to drive their trucks for long hours, sometimes so long that they fall asleep at the wheel. Truck drivers also have to handle heavy loads and deal with everyday traffic in various cities and states. Unfortunately, since there are so many truck drivers out on the road and many are faced with a strict delivery timeline, many end up getting into accidents. In 2012 there are over 730 work-related truck driver fatalities reported.
- Farmers, Ranchers, and Other Agricultural Professionals
Farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural professionals spend a lot of time working with livestock, heavy machinery, and work with toxic chemicals (if they use certain fertilizers or pesticides). In 2012 there were over 200 work-related deaths reported among these type of workers.
10. Construction Workers
Construction workers are in constant danger while working. They work with heavy machinery, dangerous equipment, dangerous tools, and sometimes have to work on high rise buildings. Construction workers also have to worry about falling and rolling objects. In 2012 there were 210 work-related construction worker deaths reported in the US.
Stay Safe
The best way to prevent work-related accidents, injuries, and deaths is to be vigilant, cautious, and following safety regulations. Wearing safety garments, steel toe boots or safety toe boots, goggles, gloves, and helmet when required can help minimize injuries while you work in a dangerous or hazardous environment. Depending on your job there may be other safety measures you will need to take to avoid disaster, which is why you should always check with your boss or OSHA on what is required for your particular type of work.
We at Coastal Boot understand how important safety is, which is why we offer a wide selection of work boots (including safety toe boots) that are both stylish and comfortable. We have brands such as Georgia Boot, Timberland, Caterpillar, Chippewa Boots, Dan Post Boots, Danner, Dr. Martens, Harley-Davidson, Iron Age, Keen, Thorogood, and many more. Give us a call today at 1 (800) 972-7627 to place an order over the phone or go to our website, and place your order online.
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