Many jobs in the United States come with significant risks that can lead to fatal injuries. In 2019, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported 5,333 fatal work injuries, with transportation accidents being the leading cause of these deaths. Below are the top 10 most dangerous jobs in the U.S., showcasing the everyday hazards that workers encounter. Many of these roles are filled by individuals with lower skill levels, and in some cases, undocumented workers. If the incoming administration enforces its proposed policies, there could be a substantial number of job vacancies to fill.
- Fishers and Related Fishing Workers
- Fatal Injuries per 100,000 Workers: 145
- Total Fatal Injuries: 44
The fishing industry is extremely perilous due to rough weather, heavy machinery, and the risk of falling overboard.
- Logging Workers
- Fatal Injuries per 100,000 Workers: 68.9
- Total Fatal Injuries: 46
Logging is hazardous because of falling trees, dangerous equipment, and remote work locations far from medical help.
- Aircraft Pilots and Flight Engineers
- Fatal Injuries per 100,000 Workers: 61.8
- Total Fatal Injuries: 85
This category includes small aircraft and medical helicopter pilots who often work in risky conditions.
- Roofers
- Fatal Injuries per 100,000 Workers: 54
- Total Fatal Injuries: 111
Roofers face dangers like falling from high places, harsh weather, and hazardous materials.
- Helpers, Construction Trades
- Fatal Injuries per 100,000 Workers: 40
- Total Fatal Injuries: 20
These workers assist in construction tasks, frequently dealing with falling objects and dangerous machinery.
- Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors
- Fatal Injuries per 100,000 Workers: 35.2
- Total Fatal Injuries: 31
Collectors work in hazardous environments with exposure to traffic, heavy equipment, and dangerous waste.
- Driver/Sales Workers and Truck Drivers
- Fatal Injuries per 100,000 Workers: 26.8
- Total Fatal Injuries: 1,005
Long hours on the road and fatigue increase the risk of fatal accidents for these workers.
- Structural Iron and Steel Workers
- Fatal Injuries per 100,000 Workers: 26.3
- Total Fatal Injuries: 18
Working at great heights and dealing with heavy steel beams makes this a dangerous profession.
- Farmers, Ranchers, and Other Agricultural Managers
- Fatal Injuries per 100,000 Workers: 23.2
- Total Fatal Injuries: 238
Farmers face dangers from heavy machinery, unpredictable livestock, and extreme weather.
- Ground Maintenance Workers
- Fatal Injuries per 100,000 Workers: 19.8
- Total Fatal Injuries: 229
They work near dangerous equipment and are often exposed to extreme weather conditions.
These statistics shed light on the risks many workers face to keep essential sectors of the economy running. Improvements in safety regulations, equipment, and training continue to be critical in reducing the dangers associated with these jobs.
