INDIANA – A new study conducted by DeMayo Law Group has highlighted the industries with the highest fatal injury rates for U.S. workers, revealing alarming statistics that highlight the dangerous risks many employees face daily.
According to the research, workers in some of the most hazardous industries suffer fatal injury rates up to 23% higher than their counterparts in safer sectors, underscoring the importance of workplace safety.
The study, which analyzed data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, revealed stark disparities in fatal injury rates across different industries. The Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, and Hunting sectors topped the list, followed closely by Transportation, Warehousing, and Construction. These industries are marked by hazardous conditions, including heavy machinery, long hours, and physical labor, contributing to a significantly higher risk of fatal accidents.
“Our research aims to raise awareness about workplace safety and promote proactive measures to minimize risks,” said a spokesperson from DeMayo Law Group. “By identifying the most dangerous industries, we can help employers and regulatory bodies develop targeted strategies to protect workers and prevent accidents.”
Key findings from the study include:
- Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, and Hunting: This sector recorded 417 fatalities with a fatal injury rate of 18.6 per 100,000 workers, making it the most dangerous industry in the U.S. The high risks stem from hazardous working conditions like operating heavy machinery and working in isolated areas.
- Transportation and Warehousing: With 1,053 fatalities and a fatal injury rate of 14.1 per 100,000 workers, this industry’s high fatality rate is attributed to vehicle-related accidents, particularly in long-haul trucking and warehouse operations.
- Construction: The construction industry saw 1,069 fatalities, with a fatal injury rate of 9.6 per 100,000 workers. Despite safety regulations, the sector remains dangerous due to falls, equipment failures, and exposure to hazardous materials.
The study also highlighted several other industries with notable fatality rates, including Wholesale Trade, Professional and Business Services, and Manufacturing. While some sectors, such as Educational and Health Services, recorded lower fatal injury rates, the risk of deadly accidents persists, mainly due to workplace violence and accidents in healthcare settings.
Top 10 Most Dangerous Industries for Workers in 2024:
- Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, and Hunting
Fatalities: 417 | Fatal Injury Rate: 18.6 per 100,000 workers - Transportation and Warehousing
Fatalities: 1,053 | Fatal Injury Rate: 14.1 per 100,000 workers - Construction
Fatalities: 1,069 | Fatal Injury Rate: 9.6 per 100,000 workers - Wholesale Trade
Fatalities: 171 | Fatal Injury Rate: 5.4 per 100,000 workers - Professional and Business Services
Fatalities: 598 | Fatal Injury Rate: 3.1 per 100,000 workers - Other Services (excluding Public Administration)
Fatalities: 200 | Fatal Injury Rate: 2.9 per 100,000 workers - Leisure and Hospitality
Fatalities: 306 | Fatal Injury Rate: 2.8 per 100,000 workers - Manufacturing
Fatalities: 404 | Fatal Injury Rate: 2.6 per 100,000 workers - Retail Trade
Fatalities: 301 | Fatal Injury Rate: 2.1 per 100,000 workers - Educational and Health Services
Fatalities: 178 | Fatal Injury Rate: 0.8 per 100,000 workers
The findings serve as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers faced by workers in high-risk industries. The study emphasizes the need for rigorous safety measures, better risk assessments, and proactive steps from employers to reduce workplace hazards and protect employees.
Visit the official DeMayo Law Group website to read the full study and gain more detailed insights into industry-specific risks, trends, and the methodology used.
