The Occupation with the Most Fatal Injuries
Every year, millions of workers across the United States put their lives on the line to do their jobs. While some occupations are more dangerous than others, some have a higher risk of fatal injuries than others. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the occupations with the most fatal injuries in 2019 were agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting.
Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting experienced the highest death rate per 100,000 workers in 2019. This rate was 28.2, which is more than double the rate of all other occupations combined. The leading cause of death in this industry was transportation incidents, which accounted for over half of all fatalities. Other causes of death included contact with objects and equipment, falls, and exposure to harmful substances or environments.
Transportation and warehousing experienced the highest injury and illness rate involving days away from work per 10,000 workers. This rate was 5.1, which is more than double the rate of all other occupations combined. The leading cause of injury and illness in this industry was overexertion, which accounted for over half of all cases. Other causes of injury and illness included contact with objects and equipment, falls, and exposure to harmful substances or environments.
In addition to the two occupations mentioned above, construction and extraction, installation, maintenance, and repair, and production occupations also experienced high rates of fatal injuries. In 2019, the death rate per 100,000 workers for construction and extraction was 17.1, for installation, maintenance, and repair was 10.2, and for production was 8.3.
It is important to note that while some occupations have higher rates of fatal injuries than others, all workers should take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety. This includes wearing the appropriate safety gear, following safety protocols, and avoiding hazardous situations. Additionally, employers should provide workers with the necessary training and resources to help them stay safe on the job.
In conclusion, agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting experienced the highest death rate per 100,000 workers in 2019. Transportation and warehousing experienced the highest injury and illness rate involving days away from work per 10,000 workers. Construction and extraction, installation, maintenance, and repair, and production occupations also experienced high rates of fatal injuries. All workers should take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety and employers should provide workers with the necessary training and resources to help them stay safe on the job.
