Revealed: America's Most Dangerous Jobs – Are You in a High-Risk Profession?

Every year, dedicated professionals across various industries face significant workplace hazards. To track and understand these risks, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), a federal agency, meticulously compiles reports on workplace fatalities and injuries across the United States. The BLS's annual report provides crucial insights into workplace safety, answering a critical question: **What are the deadliest and most dangerous jobs in America?**

On December 16, 2020, the BLS released its comprehensive report for 2019: Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries Summary (USDL-20-2265). (Consider linking to the actual BLS report if easily accessible online)

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The Top 10 Most Dangerous Jobs in the United States

Based on the most recent BLS data published in December 2020, these are the top 10 most dangerous jobs in the United States, ranked by fatality count:

1. Fishers and Related Fishing Workers – Total fatal injuries: 44
2. Logging Workers – Total fatal injuries: 46
3. Aircraft Pilots and Flight Engineers – Total fatal injuries: 85
4. Roofers – Total fatal injuries: 111
5. Helpers, Construction Trades – Total fatal injuries: 120
6. Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors – Total fatal injuries: 31
7. Driver/Sales Workers and Truck Drivers – Total fatal injuries: 1,005
8. Structural Iron and Steel Workers – Total fatal injuries: 81
9. Farmers, Ranchers, and Other Agricultural Managers – Total fatal injuries: 238
10. Ground Maintenance Workers – Total fatal injuries: 229

Notably, the composition of this list remains remarkably consistent year after year. No new industries have emerged to displace those already recognized as high-risk, and no industries have achieved such significant safety improvements as to be removed from this somber ranking. Interestingly, there was a slight positive shift in agricultural safety, with farmers and ranchers moving from #8 to #9 due to a 2.4% reduction in their fatal injury rate. This improvement may be partially attributed to increased awareness and safety measures, such as those prompted by investigations and changes at facilities like Fair Oaks Farm (as highlighted by the Chicago Tribune) following reports of animal abuse, indirectly linking ethical practices and a culture of care to overall workplace safety.

The Increasing Danger of Construction Work

The BLS report reveals a concerning trend: **Construction work is becoming deadlier.**

• Fatalities in the private construction industry increased by 5 percent in 2019, reaching 1,061 – the highest total since 2007. (BLS Report)
• Construction and extraction occupations saw a 6 percent increase in fatalities in 2019, totaling 1,066 – also the highest figure since 2007. (BLS Report)

Construction sites, where buildings, infrastructure, and industrial machinery are erected or repaired, are inherently hazardous environments. The BLS data confirms that the risks associated with construction work have escalated, reaching fatality levels not seen in over a decade. This underscores the critical need for heightened safety awareness and rigorous implementation of safety protocols within the construction industry.

6 Common Construction Hazards – and How to Mitigate Them

Construction sites present a multitude of potential hazards that contribute to the industry's high fatality rate. However, many of these hazards can be effectively minimized through a strong emphasis on safety practices, appropriate safety apparel, and consistent use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Six common construction hazards include:

• Falling from Heights: Working at elevation is a leading cause of construction fatalities. Prevention measures include proper scaffolding, fall harnesses, safety nets, and secure ladder usage.
• Personal Injury from Moving Objects (Struck-by): Construction sites involve heavy equipment and materials. Risks include being struck by vehicles, falling objects, or machinery. Safety measures include designated traffic routes, hard hats, high-visibility clothing, and clear communication protocols.
• Slips and Falls Due to Untidy Workplaces and Exposed Hazards: Cluttered work areas, debris, and unguarded openings create slip, trip, and fall hazards at ground level. Maintaining a clean and organized worksite, covering or guarding openings, and providing proper walkways are crucial preventative steps.
• Noise Pollution: Construction work often generates high noise levels from machinery and tools, leading to hearing damage over time. Mandatory use of Double Hearing Protection such as earplugs and earmuffs in noisy areas is essential.
• Air Pollution: Exposure to airborne contaminants like asbestos fibers, silica dust, and welding fumes poses respiratory health risks. Appropriate respiratory protection, such as respirators and dust masks, is vital, especially when working with hazardous materials or in poorly ventilated areas.
• Electrical Shocks: Construction sites involve extensive electrical work and potential exposure to live wires. Using static control products when working with electronics, ensuring proper grounding, and lockout/tagout procedures for electrical equipment are critical to prevent electrocution hazards.

Construction sites, despite their inherent dangers, can be made significantly safer through proactive safety measures and a commitment to a strong safety culture.

Protect Your Workforce with Quality Safety Gear from Harmony Lab & Safety Supplies

If your organization operates in a high-risk industry, especially construction, ensuring your workers have access to and consistently use appropriate safety gear is paramount. Contact Harmony Lab & Safety Supplies today (link to contact page) to discuss your specific safety needs and explore our comprehensive range of high-quality safety apparel and personal protective equipment, including respiratory protection, hearing protection, and more.

With over 16 years of experience serving diverse industries, Harmony Lab & Safety Supplies is a trusted partner in workplace safety. Our team of product experts, based right here in the United States, is ready to answer your questions and help you find the ideal safety solutions to protect your industrial operations and, most importantly, your valuable workforce. Prioritize safety – it's your most critical investment.