Most Dangerous Jobs in the U.S. According to OSHA

Posted in Workplace Accidents on January 2, 2024

Occupational hazards are an unfortunate reality for many professions. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is an agency regulating workplace safety.

According to OSHA, some jobs are more dangerous than others. The below occupations are particularly dangerous and have a high rate of workplace injuries.

Logging Workers

Among the most perilous professions, logging topped the list in 2023. Loggers operate in demanding terrains, maneuvering heavy machinery in densely forested areas. Falling trees, equipment malfunctions, and unpredictable environmental conditions may hurt loggers.

Roofers

Roofing is another occupation fraught with hazards. Roofers work at considerable heights. They are also exposed to extreme weather conditions, and risk falls or equipment-related accidents.

Fishing and Hunting Workers

The fishing and hunting industry also presents significant dangers. The work is physically demanding. Workers in these professions must also brave unpredictable weather conditions. Hunters, in particular, risk injury in “friendly fire” incidents.

Construction Workers

Construction sites contain many hazards. Workers may experience falls, machinery accidents, electrical mishaps, and exposure to hazardous materials. Falling materials may also cause concussions and other traumatic brain injuries. These risks make construction one of the most dangerous fields.

Aircraft Pilots and Flight Engineers

While seen as glamorous, aviation professions carry many risks. These risks include high-stress situations, mechanical failures, and the potential for catastrophic accidents.

Structural Iron and Steel Workers

Mining has historically been a dangerous profession. Iron and steelworkers risk falls, injuries from tools, and exposure to hazardous materials. Bending and welding steel use high heat, which can cause severe burns.

Delivery and Truck Drivers

Delivery and truck driving involve long hours. Drivers may get tired or run into dangerous road conditions. Larger trucks may have a difficult time reacting to sudden obstacles and shifts on the road.

Refuse Waste and Recyclable Material Collectors

Garbage and recycling collectors are exposed to hazardous materials. They risk injuries from heavy machinery and from handling waste. Injuries include repetitive strain injuries and illness from exposure to hazardous materials.

Farmers and Agricultural Workers

Common risks in agriculture include heavy machinery and exposure to chemicals. People may get into accidents involving animals or farm equipment. Pesticide toxicity, in particular, can cause respiratory and nervous system injuries.

Underground Mining Machine Operators

Operating heavy machinery in confined spaces poses significant risks. Risks include cave-ins, equipment failures, and exposure to harmful gases. Some mining professions include blasting. This is an “abnormally dangerous activity” that it is subject to strict liability.

Other Examples of Dangerous Jobs

The professions above pose significant risks, but other occupations do as well.

Other examples of dangerous jobs include the following:

Firefighters: Firefighters take on heavy risks to keep people safe. They routinely enter burning buildings. In doing so, they endure burns, smoke, and the risk of asphyxiation.
Healthcare workers: Healthcare workers are often exposed to contagious illnesses and harsh chemicals. They are also exposed to heavy machinery, needles, and other tools that can cause injuries.
Paramedics and EMTs: As first responders, they may have to retrieve an injured person from a dangerous scene.
Retail and hospitality: Service and sales had some of the highest rates of workplace fatalities, according to 2022 data. Workers may fall from ladders or be hurt in confrontations with customers or robbers.
Warehouse workers: Like retail workers, they have to lift large boxes. They also risk injuries from heavy equipment, such as forklifts.
Installation, Maintenance, and Repair: These professionals often risk falls. They may also risk electrical mishaps and toxic chemical exposure.

Injuries and fatalities continue to happen across a range of professions.

How to Recover Compensation After a Work Injury

After a work-related injury, you should document the injury and scene. Take photos and witness statements. Then, seek immediate medical attention for treatment and documentation of the injury.

Workers’ compensation insurance exists to support employees injured on the job. You deserve compensation after a work-related injury. An attorney can help you file a claim and negotiate on your behalf. Consult an attorney before making statements to your employer or insurance provider.

Contact Our Personal Injury Law Firm in New York, NY

If you need legal assistance, contact the New York City personal injury lawyers at Law Offices of Jay S. Knispel Personal Injury Lawyers at your nearest location to schedule a free consultation.

We have two convenient locations in New York:

Law Offices of Jay S. Knispel Personal Injury Lawyers – New York City Office
450 7th Ave #1605
New York, NY 10123
(212) 564-2800

Law Offices of Jay S. Knispel Personal Injury Lawyers – Brooklyn Office
26 Court St Suite 2511
Brooklyn, NY 11242
(718) 802-1600