Some occupations are more dangerous for workers than others, and the most dangerous occupations aren’t always what you might expect. In the United States, a worker is injured on the job every seven seconds (according to the National Safety Council).
Some Occupations and Industries are More Dangerous than Others:
Every job and place of employment carries some risk of injury, but some are inherently more dangerous than others. Unfortunately, however, Oklahoma lays claim to several high-risk occupations. In 2017, 91 Oklahoma workers suffered fatal work-related injuries, and Oklahoma recently recorded 48,900 work-related injuries in one year (according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). With a slightly higher rate of on-the-job injuries than that U.S. average, Oklahoma workers should be aware of Oklahoma workers’ compensation law and what to do if they suffer a workplace or job-related injury.
The Most Dangerous Jobs in Oklahoma:
A significant number of Oklahoma workers are employed in industries widely considered among the most dangerous in the nation. Using statistics gathered and published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the industries with the highest rates of workplace fatalities are mining/oil and gas extraction, construction, manufacturing, trucking/transportation, and forestry and agriculture.
What Makes Some Jobs More Dangerous than Others for Oklahoma Workers:
Certain industries include job duties or common job sites that are more dangerous for employees and workers. For example, workers in oil and gas operations often work on drilling rigs where many injuries are known to occur. In addition to dangerous job sites, workers in oil and gas also have to consider numerous occupational hazards fairly common in their industry, like the risk of explosions, cave-ins, chemical burns, etc. The mining, oil, and gas industry is also known for long work hours. As a result, workers may spend extended periods on the job exposed to the elements. The long hours and exposure combined lead to an increased likelihood of worker fatigue, making it more difficult for workers to perform their job duties safely.
Oklahoma Workers at High-Risk for Workplace Injuries:
Construction, manufacturing, and trucking all pose a similarly high risk of injury for Oklahoma workers due to dangerous job sites, long hours, and exposure to the elements all escalating the chance of on-the-job injury. If you are injured on the job, you may be eligible to receive workers’ compensation to help cover medical expenses and lost wages.
To find out if you are eligible for Workers’ Comp benefits, please call Armstrong & Vaught P.L.C., Tulsa’s Premier Workers’ Compensation, Employment, and Social Security Law attorneys. We have the experience you need on your side as you seek the compensation you deserve.