Hidden Hazards: Industries You Didn’t Know Were so Dangerous

Certain jobs stand out as obviously risky. If you’re being asked to charge into the line of fire, or into a burning building, then it’s fair to say that you’re doing a dangerous job. But there are certain career choices which confer risk of a similar level – and some of them might not be quite so obvious. 

What are the deadly industries?

So, in which jobs are you most likely to suffer a workplace injury or accident?

Healthcare

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed healthcare workers to a new kind of risk: a novel virus whose lethality was, at the time, barely understood. But as a healthcare professional, you’re exposed to a whole range of diseases. And that’s before we consider the stress of long hours, traumatic situations, and even coming under attack from the general public.

Healthcare sits at the top of the Health and Safety Executive’s league table for self-reported work-related ill health.

Agriculture

The heavy machinery used in the agriculture industry makes it among the most deadly in the UK. If adequate safety precautions are not taken, a farming implement can inflict considerable damage – but other threats, like airborne pesticides, can present a chronic threat, too.

Waste management

Similarly, those working in waste management are exposed to noxious substances which can potentially cause serious illness. Then there’s the fact that they’re predominantly working outdoors – and forced to contend with adverse weather, heavy loads, and the danger of slipping.

Construction

There are many dangers on the average construction site – and it’s for this reason that there’s been such a revolution in health and safety in this workplace over the last few decades. High-vis jackets, hard hats and goggles have helped to protect construction workers from the tools and materials they work with. One of the most lethal dangers in construction, however, is scaffolding – and working at height in general. 

Fishing

The labour needed to get fish from the sea to the supermarket is extremely trying – both mentally and physically. Globally, it’s among the world’s most dangerous industries. Cramped quarters, unpredictable seas, and exhaustion all contribute to a dangerous working environment. 

Miners

Mining is another notorious industry. Workers are forced to spend long hours underground, where breathing difficulty can easily be caused by the gases present. The ground underfoot can be treacherous, and an explosion or fire can be disastrous when you’re underground.

Conclusion

It’s fair to say that, over the years, the workplace has become notably safer. The story of the last century has been one of steadily improving safety standards. With that said, there are still industries which will always confer a degree of personal risk – which is why it’s important to be grateful to those working in them!