Virtually every type of profession carries with it at least some degree of risk, but in some fields, those risks are far more prevalent than in others. If you work in particular industries, such as, say, trucking or construction, you may have a better idea about the types of on-the-job dangers you face than you might if you spend most of your time in an office setting.
Office workers, too, face unique workplace hazards, but those in office or administrative roles are not the employees facing the most substantial levels of risk.
The most dangerous occupation in America
That distinction, per Time magazine, goes to workers within the logging profession, which sees about 111 deaths each year for every 100,000 people holding logging jobs. Part of the risk that comes with the logging profession stems from the fact that the job is often done in rural areas, where prompt medical treatment is not available. Workers in need of immediate care often find themselves hours away from the closest hospital or medical facility.
There are also other inherent dangers that come with a job in the logging industry. Working at substantial heights increases your risk of taking a serious fall as a logger, and your regular use of chainsaws and related machinery and equipment also adds to your level of workplace danger.
Other inherently risky jobs
Coming in at number two on the list of America’s deadliest jobs is that of a fisher or fishing industry worker. In 2014, there were 80 fatal workplace injuries suffered among fishers for every 100,000 workers in the profession. Much like loggers, fishers are often far away from adequate medical care when they suffer serious injuries. Thus, the injuries people in this profession do suffer may be more likely to lead to death than they would if prompt medical care was readily available.
Rounding out the top five most dangerous professions in America were those held by pilots, roofers and recyclable materials collectors.