Some jobs are more risky than others. While most of us work in relatively safe environments, some people face life-threatening hazards every day. Whether it’s dealing with heavy machinery, extreme weather, or dangerous animals, these workers put their lives on the line for their livelihoods.
Top 10 Dangerous Jobs in World
In this article, we will look at the 10 most dangerous jobs in the world, based on the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and other sources. We will also explore the reasons why these jobs are so perilous, and what measures are taken to prevent injuries and fatalities.
1. Logging Workers
Logging workers harvest trees for timber, pulp, and paper. They use chainsaws, axes, and other equipment to cut, trim, and transport logs. They also clear land for roads, buildings, and other purposes.
Logging workers have the highest fatality rate of any occupation, according to the BLS. In 2021, they had 82 deaths per 100,000 full-time workers. This is 21 times higher than the average for all workers. The main causes of death were contact with objects and equipment, such as falling trees and branches, and transportation incidents, such as vehicle crashes and rollovers.
Logging workers also face a high risk of nonfatal injuries, such as cuts, sprains, and fractures. They often work in remote and rugged areas, where medical help may not be readily available. They also have to deal with harsh weather conditions, such as rain, snow, and heat.
To reduce the hazards, logging workers are required to wear protective gear, such as helmets, gloves, and boots. They also have to follow safety rules and procedures, such as inspecting equipment, communicating with co-workers, and avoiding overhead power lines. They also receive training on how to operate machinery and handle emergencies.
2. Fishing and Hunting Workers
Fishing and hunting workers catch and trap fish and other aquatic animals, such as crabs, lobsters, and clams. They also hunt and trap land animals, such as deer, bears, and foxes. They use nets, traps, rods, guns, and other tools to capture and kill their prey. They also process, pack, and sell their products.
Fishing and hunting workers have the second-highest fatality rate of any occupation, according to the BLS. In 2021, they had 75 deaths per 100,000 full-time workers. This is 19 times higher than the average for all workers. The main cause of death was transportation incidents, such as boat capsizing, sinking, or colliding. Other causes included drowning, animal attacks, and exposure to extreme cold.
Fishing and hunting workers also face a high risk of nonfatal injuries, such as bites, stings, burns, and infections. They often work in isolated and unpredictable environments, where weather, water, and wildlife can pose serious threats. They also have to deal with long and irregular hours, physical exertion, and stress.
To reduce the hazards, fishing and hunting workers are required to wear life jackets, flotation devices, and other safety equipment. They also have to follow navigation rules, weather forecasts, and emergency protocols. They also receive training on how to use firearms, handle animals, and perform first aid.
3. Farm and Ranch Animal Workers
Farm and ranch animal workers raise and care for livestock, such as cattle, pigs, sheep, and poultry. They also work with aquaculture, such as fish, shrimp, and oysters. They feed, water, groom, and medicate the animals. They also assist with breeding, birthing, and slaughtering.
Farm and ranch animal workers have the third-highest fatality rate of any occupation, according to the BLS. In 2021, they had 65 deaths per 100,000 full-time workers. This is 17 times higher than the average for all workers. The main cause of death was animal attacks, such as kicks, bites, and goring. Other causes included transportation incidents, such as tractor overturns and collisions, and contact with objects and equipment, such as hay bales and machinery.
Farm and ranch animal workers also face a high risk of nonfatal injuries, such as bruises, cuts, and broken bones. They often work in dirty and noisy conditions, where they are exposed to dust, chemicals, and diseases. They also have to deal with heavy lifting, bending, and kneeling.
To reduce the hazards, farm and ranch animal workers are required to wear protective clothing, such as gloves, boots, and masks. They also have to follow hygiene rules, such as washing hands and disinfecting tools. They also receive training on how to handle animals, operate equipment, and prevent accidents.
4. Roofers
Roofers install, repair, and replace roofs on buildings. They use materials such as shingles, tiles, metal, and rubber. They also apply coatings, sealants, and insulation. They work on various types of roofs, such as flat, sloped, and curved.
Roofers have the fourth-highest fatality rate of any occupation, according to the BLS. In 2021, they had 54 deaths per 100,000 full-time workers. This is 14 times higher than the average for all workers. The main cause of death was falls, slips, and trips, such as falling from roofs, ladders, or scaffolds. Other causes included exposure to harmful substances, such as asbestos and lead, and contact with objects and equipment, such as power tools and electrical wires.
Roofers also face a high risk of nonfatal injuries, such as sprains, strains, and burns. They often work in hot and sunny conditions, where they are exposed to heat, glare, and UV rays. They also have to deal with windy and rainy conditions, which can make roofs slippery and unstable.
To reduce the hazards, roofers are required to wear safety harnesses, helmets, and goggles. They also have to follow fall protection rules, such as using guardrails, nets, and anchors. They also receive training on how to use equipment, handle materials, and avoid hazards.
5. Structural Iron and Steel Workers
Structural iron and steel workers install and repair iron and steel structures, such as bridges, buildings, and towers. They use cranes, hoists, and winches to lift and position beams, girders, and columns. They also use tools such as wrenches, hammers, and torches to cut, bend, and join the metal pieces.
Structural iron and steel workers have the fifth-highest fatality rate of any occupation, according to the BLS. In 2021, they had 41 deaths per 100,000 full-time workers. This is 11 times higher than the average for all workers. The main cause of death was falls, slips, and trips, such as falling from heights, platforms, or scaffolds. Other causes included contact with objects and equipment, such as being struck by falling or flying metal, and exposure to harmful substances, such as welding fumes and gases.
Structural iron and steel workers also face a high risk of nonfatal injuries, such as cuts, bruises, and fractures. They often work in high and exposed places, where they are subject to wind, rain, and snow. They also have to deal with heavy and sharp objects, which can cause punctures, lacerations, and amputations.
To reduce the hazards, structural iron and steel workers are required to wear safety belts, harnesses, and nets. They also have to follow rigging and signaling rules, such as using ropes, chains, and hand signals. They also receive training on how to work at heights, use equipment, and handle emergencies.
6. Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors
Refuse and recyclable material collectors collect and transport waste and recyclable materials, such as garbage, paper, plastic, and metal. They work for municipal agencies, private companies, or self-employed. They use trucks, bins, and carts to load and unload the materials. They also sort, clean, and process the materials.
Refuse and recyclable material collectors have the sixth-highest fatality rate of any occupation, according to the BLS. In 2021, they had 35 deaths per 100,000 full-time workers. This is nine times higher than the average for all workers. The main cause of death was transportation incidents, such as being struck by or caught in between vehicles, especially their own trucks. Other causes included exposure to harmful substances, such as bacteria, viruses, and chemicals, and contact with objects and equipment, such as compactors and shredders.
Refuse and recyclable material collectors also face a high risk of nonfatal injuries, such as sprains, strains, and infections. They often work in busy and congested areas, where they have to deal with traffic, pedestrians, and animals. They also have to deal with unpleasant and hazardous materials, which can cause odors, allergies, and injuries.
To reduce the hazards, refuse and recyclable material collectors are required to wear reflective vests, gloves, and masks. They also have to follow traffic rules, such as using lights, horns, and mirrors. They also receive training on how to drive safely, handle materials, and avoid accidents.
7. Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers
Electrical power-line installers and repairers install and repair power lines that transmit and distribute electricity. They work for utility companies, contractors, or self-employed. They use trucks, cranes, and helicopters to reach and work on the lines. They also use tools such as pliers, wrenches, and voltmeters to connect and
test the lines. They also use protective equipment, such as gloves, boots, and helmets.
Electrical power-line installers and repairers have the seventh-highest fatality rate of any occupation, according to the BLS. In 2021, they had 29 deaths per 100,000 full-time workers. This is eight times higher than the average for all workers. The main cause of death was exposure to electric current, such as being electrocuted or shocked by high-voltage wires. Other causes included falls, slips, and trips, such as falling from poles, towers, or helicopters, and contact with objects and equipment, such as being struck by falling or flying tools or wires.
Electrical power-line installers and repairers also face a high risk of nonfatal injuries, such as burns, cuts, and concussions. They often work in high and hard-to-reach places, where they are subject to weather, wind, and birds. They also have to deal with live and energized wires, which can cause sparks, arcs, and fires.
To reduce the hazards, electrical power-line installers and repairers are required to wear insulated and flame-resistant clothing, such as suits, gloves, and boots. They also have to follow safety standards, such as grounding, locking, and tagging the lines. They also receive training on how to work with electricity, use equipment, and handle emergencies.
8. Truck Drivers and Driver/Sales Workers
Truck drivers and driver/sales workers drive trucks and other vehicles to transport goods and services. They work for various industries, such as manufacturing, retail, and delivery. They load and unload the cargo, check the vehicle condition, and maintain records. They also sell or deliver the goods and services to customers.
Truck drivers and driver/sales workers have the eighth-highest fatality rate of any occupation, according to the BLS. In 2021, they had 28 deaths per 100,000 full-time workers. This is seven times higher than the average for all workers. The main cause of death was transportation incidents, such as being involved in crashes, rollovers, or jackknifes. Other causes included violence and injuries by persons or animals, such as being assaulted, robbed, or bitten, and contact with objects and equipment, such as being struck by or caught in between cargo or doors.
Truck drivers and driver/sales workers also face a high risk of nonfatal injuries, such as sprains, strains,
and back pain. They often work in long and irregular hours, where they have to deal with fatigue, stress, and boredom. They also have to deal with traffic, road conditions, and weather, which can affect their driving safety and efficiency.
To reduce the hazards, truck drivers and driver/sales workers are required to wear seat belts, helmets, and gloves. They also have to follow traffic laws, such as speed limits, signals, and signs. They also receive training on how to drive defensively, handle cargo, and deal with customers.
9. Construction Laborers
Construction laborers perform various tasks at construction sites, such as digging, lifting, carrying, and demolishing. They work for contractors, subcontractors, or self-employed. They use tools such as shovels, hammers, and drills to prepare and clean the site. They also use equipment such as forklifts, cranes, and bulldozers to move and place materials.
Construction laborers have the ninth-highest fatality rate of any occupation, according to the BLS. In 2021, they had 18 deaths per 100,000 full-time workers. This is five times higher than the average for all workers. The main cause of death was falls, slips, and trips, such as falling from heights, scaffolds, or ladders. Other causes included contact with objects and equipment, such as being struck by or caught in between materials, tools, or vehicles, and exposure to harmful substances, such as dust, asbestos, and lead.
Construction laborers also face a high risk of nonfatal injuries, such as cuts, bruises, and burns. They often work in noisy and crowded conditions, where they are exposed to vibration, heat, and cold. They also have to deal with heavy and sharp objects, which can cause punctures, lacerations, and amputations.
To reduce the hazards, construction laborers are required to wear protective clothing, such as helmets, gloves, and boots. They also have to follow safety regulations, such as using guardrails, nets, and signs. They also receive training on how to use tools, equipment, and materials safely and efficiently.
10. Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers
Landscaping and groundskeeping workers maintain and improve the appearance and health of outdoor areas, such as lawns, gardens, and parks. They work for homeowners, businesses, or governments. They use tools such as mowers, trimmers, and rakes to cut, prune, and clear the vegetation. They also use equipment such as trucks, trailers, and sprayers to transport and apply fertilizers, pesticides, and water.
Landscaping and groundskeeping workers have the tenth-highest fatality rate of any occupation, according to the BLS. In 2021, they had 17 deaths per 100,000 full-time workers. This is four times higher than the average for all workers. The main cause of death was transportation incidents, such as being struck by or run over by vehicles, especially their own trucks or mowers. Other causes included contact with objects and equipment, such as being struck by or caught in between blades, branches, or rocks, and exposure to harmful substances, such as poison ivy, bee stings, and chemicals.
Landscaping and groundskeeping workers also face a high risk of nonfatal injuries, such as sprains, strains, and allergies. They often work in hot and sunny conditions, where they are exposed to heat, glare, and UV rays. They also have to deal with insects, animals, and plants, which can cause bites, stings, and rashes.
To reduce the hazards, landscaping and groundskeeping workers are required to wear protective clothing, such as hats, sunglasses, and masks. They also have to follow environmental rules, such as using organic or low-toxic products, and disposing of waste properly. They also receive training on how to operate equipment, handle materials, and avoid hazards.
Conclusion
These are the 10 most dangerous jobs in the world, according to the latest data from the BLS and other sources. While these jobs are essential for the society and the economy, they also pose serious risks for the workers who perform them. Therefore, it is important to recognize and appreciate the efforts and sacrifices of these workers, and to support and improve their safety and well-being.
Most Asked Questions and Answers
Here are some of the most asked questions and answers about the 10 most dangerous jobs in the world:
- Q: Which job has the highest fatality rate in the world?
- A: According to the BLS, logging workers have the highest fatality rate of any occupation in the world, with 82 deaths per 100,000 full-time workers in 2021.
- Q: Which job has the lowest fatality rate in the world?
- A: According to the BLS, computer and mathematical occupations have the lowest fatality rate of any occupation in the world, with 1 death per 100,000 full-time workers in 2021.
- Q: Which job has the highest nonfatal injury rate in the world?
- A: According to the BLS, nursing assistants have the highest nonfatal injury rate of any occupation in the world, with 4,110 injuries per 100,000 full-time workers in 2021.
- Q: Which job has the lowest nonfatal injury rate in the world?
- A: According to the BLS, financial analysts have the lowest nonfatal injury rate of any occupation in the world, with 30 injuries per 100,000 full-time workers in 2021.
- Q: Which job has the highest pay in the world?
- A: According to the BLS, anesthesiologists have the highest pay of any occupation in the world, with a median annual wage of $271,440 in 2021.
- Q: Which job has the lowest pay in the world?
- A: According to the BLS, fast food cooks have the lowest pay of any occupation in the world, with a median annual wage of $19,140 in 2021.
- Q: Which job has the highest growth rate in the world?
- A: According to the BLS, wind turbine service technicians have the highest growth rate of any occupation in the world, with a projected increase of 61% from 2019 to 2029.
- Q: Which job has the lowest growth rate in the world?
- A: According to the BLS, nuclear power reactor operators have the lowest growth rate of any occupation in the world, with a projected decrease of 13% from 2019 to 2029.
- Q: Which job has the highest satisfaction rate in the world?
- A: According to a survey by CareerBliss, clergy have the highest satisfaction rate of any occupation in the world, with a score of 4.29 out of 5 in 2021.
- Q: Which job has the lowest satisfaction rate in the world?
- A: According to a survey by CareerBliss, security guards have the lowest satisfaction rate of any occupation in the world, with a score of 2.71 out of 5 in 2021.
