Construction
With the hustle and bustle of the American economy, there are a number of different industries that we are dependent on to thrive and survive. However, where there is productivity and growth, there is also danger and hazards. Here, we will explore some of the most dangerous industries in the United States.
Construction
Another one of the most dangerous industries is construction. In the construction industry, there are a number of heavy and dangerous machinery and tools that construction workers use on a daily basis. The National Safety Council reports that the construction industry has consistently experienced the greatest amount of deaths each year since 2012. The most common injuries sustained in the construction industry are known as the “fatal four” and include: slip and falls, struck-by accidents, caught-in/between incidents, and electrocution. Determining liability in a construction accident becomes very complex as there are a number of different parties that may be held liable. Therefore, it is advised to contact a Los Angeles construction accident lawyer to help you navigate the nuances of a construction accident claim.
Transportation
The transportation industry, which includes trucking, shipping, and aviation also presents itself with a number of dangers and risks. Individuals within this industry face a number of challenges, including variable weather, stringent safety regulations, and regular maintenance checks on the vehicles that they operate. Additionally, the nature of the job requires individuals within the transportation industry to travel for prolonged periods of time, which increases the risk of fatigue-related accidents.
Agriculture
The agricultural industry, which includes sectors such as farming, fishing, hunting, forestry, and logging, also encompasses a number of dangerous occupations. Some common hazards include, long working hours, strenuous activities, repetitive motion injuries, respiratory illnesses, improper training, and exposure to potentially poisonous chemicals and pesticides.
Roofers
Individuals who work as roofers are also susceptible to getting injured on the job. The daily duties of a roofer include installing, repairing, and replacing shingles, asphalt, metal, and other related materials onto the roofs of buildings and homes. This job is particularly dangerous mainly because the roofer must perform their jobs at very tall heights. This, coupled with external factors such as wet and slippery weather conditions, makes roofers particularly vulnerable to falling or tripping either on the roof or ladder.
Iron and Steel
Iron and steel workers are responsible for installing and building the structure for buildings, roads, bridges, and other structures. Similar to roofers, iron and steel workers are also susceptible to falling due to the elevated heights at which they may be working. In addition to the potential for falling, iron and steel workers are also exposed to hazardous chemicals and carcinogens that are likely to increase your risk of cancer, such as mesothelioma.
Mining
One final industry that is considered to be particularly dangerous is mining. Individuals who work in mining are constantly exposed to dangerous gasses and toxins such as methane, carbon monoxide, and hydrogen sulfide, of which can have severe health implications. Despite the use of proper personal protective equipment, the confined spaces that miners work in can make it difficult for these toxic gasses to escape.
