Construction is often referred to as the most dangerous industry, and the reason for this is that it has the most annual workplace fatalities. Serious accidents are very common, and many of these accidents are deadly. Examples include falls, electrocutions, trench collapses, vehicle collisions and much more.
But one thing to consider is the size of the industry itself. There are millions of construction workers. All of them face potential exposure to serious hazards on the job. But if you look at the rate of fatal accidents, then some other industries stand out.
Agriculture, forestry and outdoor industries
Many of these industries are those where people work outside, often doing manual labor or using heavy equipment. One example is the logging industry. Forestry can be very dangerous due to the use of chainsaws and other equipment, along with the inherent danger of working in remote locations.
Another example is the fishing industry. Deep-sea fishing in particular is dangerous, as many deadly accidents have occurred far from shore.
A third example is agriculture. Workers face exposure to the elements, risks from machinery and much more.
These industries are smaller than construction on the whole, but the fatal accident rate is actually higher. So, although there will be fewer fatal accidents in the fishing industry or the lumber industry, it could be argued that these industries are actually more dangerous than construction. There is a greater probability that a worker will suffer serious or even deadly injuries.
Seeking compensation
Understanding dangerous industries can certainly be helpful as workers strive to keep themselves safe on a day-to-day basis. If you have suffered injuries or if you have lost a loved one in a fatal workplace accident, be sure you know what legal options you have.