America’s Most Dangerous Jobs in 2014 Plus Tips for Safer Workplaces

Great strides have been made to reduce the number of workplace injuries in this country. Injuries in 2012 were at an all-time low and fatalities were the second lowest on record, according to the 2014 State of Safety report from the National Safety Council. Yet, 12 Americans leave for work every day and never come home, and nearly 3 million are injured every year, according to the Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries.

Workplace Injury Statistics

• Logging was America’s most deadly job in 2012 at 127.8 deaths per 100,000 workers compared to 3.2 per 100,000 workers for all occupations. (Source: America’s 10 Deadliest Jobs, Forbes)
• There were nearly 3 million on-the-job injuries in 2012, or 3.8 per 100,000 workers. Another 4,383 Americans died while working. (Source: Occupational Injuries and Illnesses, Bureau of Labor Statistics)
• Transportation incidents are typically the leading cause of workplace injuries, accounting for two of every five work fatalities in 2012. (Source: Driving Down Distraction, National Safety Council)

America’s 10 Most Dangerous Jobs

Is your job one of America’s most dangerous? We know that logging is the most dangerous, but here are the others making the top 10 list:

Tips for a Safer Workplace

As an employee or employer, you should know how to prevent workplace injuries. How can we better protect our workers? Here are 10 tips to help employees create a safer work environment for themselves and others:

• Be aware. Know the hazards particular to your workplace.
• Learn good posture. While at your desk, keep your shoulders in line with your hips. And use good form when lifting.
• Take regular breaks. Many work-related injuries occur when a worker is tired. Schedule tough tasks when refreshed.
• Don’t take shortcuts. Skipping proper procedures when using dangerous tools and machinery is the leading cause of workplace injuries.
• Keep emergency exits clear. And make it easy to reach emergency shutoffs.
• Report unsafe conditions to your supervisor. Don’t be shy if you see a workplace hazard. Your supervisors are legally obligated to ensure your safety.
• Use mechanical aids whenever possible. Don’t carry something heavy when you could use a wheelbarrow, conveyor belt, forklift or other aid.
• Stay sober. About 3 percent of workplace fatalities occur due to alcohol and drug use.
• Reduce stress. Stress can make it hard to concentrate.
• Wear proper safety equipment. Earplugs, hard hats, safety goggles, gloves, etc., greatly reduce the risk of workplace injury.

More workplace safety tips and complete details can be found here. If you work in an office, here are great tips for creating a safer office space by The National Safety Council. And, here are seven safety tips for employers.

Workers’ Compensation Claims

Under federal law, every employee has the right to a safe workplace. If you believe your workplace is dangerous, you can request an inspection from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), a federal agency. Find out more about Workers’ Compensation in South Carolina, and then contact Barrow Law Firm on the best way to proceed with your incident.