Back in 1970 when Richard Nixon was president, Congress passed an act titled, “Occupational Safety and Health Act,” that was meant to enforce safety in the workplace. Since the act was implemented, the overall standards regarding a safe work environment have improved and fatalities have decreased. Although the safety act has been around over 30 years, there are still injuries that occur in the workplace every day. Some environments are more hazardous than others, but when a worker is injured while on the job, it can immensely impact their life and family. A report by the Bureau of Labor Statistics stated, “There were approximately 2.9 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses reported by private industry employers in 2016, occurring at a rate of 2.9 cases per 100 full-time equivalent workers.” Accidents happen every day, so if you or someone you love has been injured while on the job in one of these accident-prone industries, a Winston-Salem workplace accident lawyer can help you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Top 10 Most Dangerous Jobs
An article by USA Today, shared the 25 most dangerous jobs in America and the fatality rates for each. Listed below are the top 10 based on information from 2016:
- Logging– Fatal injuries were 135.9 per 100,000 workers, with the most common injuries resulting from being struck by an object.
- Fishers and related workers– Fatal injuries were 86.0 per 100,000 employees.
- Aircraft pilots and flight engineers– Fatal injuries were 55.5 per 100,000 workers. The most common accidents were overexertion and bodily reaction.
- Roofers– Fatal injuries were 48.6 per 100,000 workers, with most accidents being falls, slips, and trips.
- Reuse and recyclable material collectors – Fatal injuries were 34.1 per 100,000 workers, and the most common accidents were slips and falls, and trips.
- Structural iron and steel workers – Fatal injuries were 25.1 per 100,00 workers, and the most common injuries resulted from being struck by an object.
- Driver/sales workers and truck drivers– Fatal injuries were 24.7 per 100,000 workers, and the most common accidents were overexertion and bodily reaction.
- Farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural managers– Fatal injuries were 23.1 per 100,000 employees, and the most common accidents were falls, slips, and trips.
- First-line supervisors of construction trades and extraction workers – Fatal injuries were 18.0 per 100,000 workers, and the most common accidents were falls, slips, and trips.
- Miscellaneous agricultural workers – Fatal injuries were 17.4 per 100,000 workers, and the most common accident was being struck by an object.
These occupations are considered to be the most accident-prone jobs in America. If you or someone you know has suffered an injury while on the job, it’s time to seek the assistance of a Winston-Salem workplace accident lawyer. Injuries can range from lacerations and inhaling toxic fumes to muscle strains. Our attorneys are aware of the dangerous conditions some workers experience every day. That’s why we want to help those who have been a victim of injury at their workplace receive the compensation they need to move forward.
Safety Tips to Reduce Injuries in the Workplace
While it is the responsibility of the employer to ensure the work environment is safe, employees have to also make an effort to implement safety procedures in order to keep themselves and their co-workers safe. Below are a few ways employees can contribute to the safety of their workplace:
- It’s essential to be alert and attentive of your surroundings
- Take breaks when necessary
- Always follow the procedures, especially with machinery and tools
- Stay informed on new safety procedures
- Never block emergency exits
- If there is an unsafe condition, report it to the supervisor immediately
- Wear protective equipment provided by the employer
Following these safety tips could help reduce potential injuries in the workplace and keep others safe as well. Our attorneys want Winston-Salem residents to be safe, but we understand that accidents happen. If tragedy strikes, we’ll be there to help you.
Contact an Injury Attorney
The team at Lewis & Keller understands how dangerous work environments can be despite enforced safety procedures, especially in accident-prone industries. We believe our clients should receive the compensation they deserve after a work-related injury. A workers’ compensation claim could cover pain and suffering, permanent disability, temporary disability, occupational therapy, lost wages, and punitive damages due to an employer’s negligence. Our experienced legal team is ready to fight for you or your loved one. Call us today at (877) 947-4112 or fill out our free case evaluation form.
