Top 9 Dangerous Jobs and Work Environments

 

Did you know that science can prove some people like thrills more than others?

You personally might not be someone that wants to have a dangerous job, especially since you have to go every single day.

Some workplaces, however, are literally putting the lives of their workers on the line every single day. Although you might be shocked to hear it, some of the workers that you take for granted or don’t even really notice could be doing some of the most difficult, risky jobs out there.

Keep reading below as we explore some of the most dangerous work environments in the world.

1. Trash Collectors

Trash and recycling collectors only make about $41,000 per year, but they deal with some of the grossest, stinkiest refuse around. Not only that, but they also keep our streets clean and risk their lives every single day.

Although it is one of the most important jobs out there, it often goes unnoticed just how dangerous this line of work really is.

Trash collectors can fall of their trucks, get hit by other cars, or even have accidents with the heavy machinery they must use every time they are on the clock.

2. Oilfield Workers

Regardless of if an oilfield worker is working onshore or offshore, they are constantly in danger due to the nature of their work. They deal with heights, dangerous materials, and heavy equipment every day.

One of the other issues that they often face, however, is severe fatigue. This can lead to other accidents even after they finish work for the day, such as car crashes.

Due to the types of chemicals and substances that oilfield workers are exposed to, they are also faced with the possibility of fire or explosions creating increased workplace hazards.

3. Deep-Sea Fishermen

Being out in the open waters without any type of medical intervention or supply center close by is a fairly scary thought for many people, but deep-sea fishermen face that every time they go to work.

However, plenty of people still go out into the deep sea with the hopes of making a big catch (and a big payday).

4. Roofers

Have you ever heard that it’s not safe for you to go out onto your roof, and you should instead call a professional to do the job? There’s a reason for that.

Roofers are constantly putting themselves at risk of falling whenever they work on commercial or residential properties. With roofs being one of the most crucial parts of a building structure, this job is essential. However, that doesn’t mean it doesn’t still come with its share of fatalities due to falls.

5. Lumberjacks

When you think about all of the heavy machinery and monstrous trees that lumberjacks deal with, it’s no surprise that they are part of one of the more dangerous job options out there.

In addition to this, lumberjacks are often hoisted into the air to take care of trees in sections, which comes with its own set of challenges.

6. Underwater Welders

When you think of electricity and water, you typically would put them into the “do not mix” category. However, these professionals repair ships, dams, pipelines, and many other things with electric tools underwater!

There are a lot of different dangers associated with this job, such as pressure change hazards, equipment malfunctions, or even explosions. Since the population of workers in this field is so small, there is limited data on the fatalities in the line of duty.

KHA has resources for managing safety data so that even people in smaller fields like this can have the opportunity to work safe on the job.

7. Veterinarians

You may not think a veterinarian has an unsafe job, but when you consider the infections, illnesses, animal bites, and emotional strain that they deal with every day, you might think again.

Mental health and suicidality are some of the biggest concerns for veterinarians around the globe.

This is a high-stress position that involves caring for creatures that are unable to communicate their thoughts, wants, and needs verbally. Clearly, it can take a toll on the overall health of these caring individuals.

8. Iron and Steel Workers

There are a lot of risks involved with iron and steelworks, regardless of what task the worker is doing at any given point in time. In this field, you’ll deal with heights, electric lines, swinging beams, heavy machinery, and more.

A lot of the injuries in this field are due to falls, but you’ll also hear of workers being injured (or killed) due to burns, broken bones, or cuts.

9. Miners

No matter where you are in the world, many miners do the work because the potential profits outweigh the risk. However, there are serious dangers that miners are facing at any given moment. Just a few of these hazards include:

• Toxic fumes
• Fatigue
• Falls
• Cave-ins
• Chemical leaks
• Explosions

Not only that, but mining is also one of the dirtiest jobs in the world. This can lead to health problems that come up in later years.

Stay Safe in Unsafe Work Environments

Even if you’re employed in one of these fields, there are still steps that can be taken to make work environments safer. Always make sure that your place of employment is following any standardized guidelines in place.

In addition to that, pay attention to what you’re doing as a worker, and keep yourself (and others) out of harm’s way as much as you can.

If you’re craving more information on getting involved with one of these fields, check out more information on our website about switching to a new career next.