Most Dangerous Industries in Connecticut for Work-Related Accidents

Many industries can be dangerous for workers, but there are several sectors in Connecticut that account for many occupational accidents. The most dangerous industries in Connecticut for work-related accidents include logging, commercial fishing and hunting, roofers, refuse and recyclable material collection, aviation, and construction.

Workplace safety has improved over the years with proactive precautions taken by employers and enforcement provided through OSHA. However, on-the-job accidents still unfortunately happen. OSHA estimates show that the total cost of work injuries in 2021 was $167.0 billion, with $36.3 billion in associated medical expenses.

CONN-OSHA works to ensure workplaces are healthy and safe. Staff help to enforce health and safety regulations that impact state and municipal employees. Staff can also provide no-cost consultation services to any employer. The office is located at the Connecticut Department of Labor, 38 Wolcott Hill Road in Wethersfield.

Talk With a Workers’ Compensation Attorney

Suisman Shapiro Attorneys-At-Law understands that workers’ compensation cases should be addressed based on the unique needs of each client. Our attorneys can help answer your questions and guide you through each step of the process. We have several dedicated attorneys who focus on workers’ compensation cases and areas such as asbestos litigation, mesothelioma, and Social Security Disability.

Most Dangerous Industries in Connecticut for Occupational Accidents

Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and Connecticut state safety reports indicate the following industries have higher-than-average accident rates:

• Logging. The fatal injury rate for loggers is 98.9 per 100,000 workers. Hazards and risks include physical hazards such as heavy machinery and falling trees; environmental factors; and health risks like exposure to hazardous substances and noise pollution.
• Commercial Fishing and hunting. Common hazards for individuals involved in the fishing and hunting industry include equipment injuries, environmental risks, wildlife encounters, slips and falls, and exposure to chemicals. The fatal injury rate is 86.9.
• Roofers. The leading cause of injury and death for roofers is falls. Other hazards include respiratory issues, heat stress, cuts and lacerations, electrical hazards, weather-related risks, and noise-induced hearing loss.
• Refuse and recyclable materials collection. This industry has a fatal injury rate of 41.4. The daily work routine presents many unique injury hazards. Workers can encounter hazardous materials, jump on and off the trucks in traffic, and handle heavy items. In 2021, there were 79,000 refuse workers employed nationwide, and 75% had experienced a work-related illness, injury, or fatality.
• Aircraft pilots and flight engineers. The aviation industry has a fatal injury rate of 31.1. Although the commercial flight industry is relatively safe, workers in the private industry face hazards like adverse weather conditions, mechanical failures, and pilot fatigue.
• Construction. The construction industry has a fatal accident rate of 27.4. Construction workers can face hazards such as uneven surfaces, machinery malfunctions, falling debris, electrocution, fires, and explosions.

Common Occupational Hazards

Hazards in the workplace are any aspect of work that can lead to injury, illness, or harm. Hazards can include physical dangers as well as stress and ergonomic issues. The list below details some of the most common occupational hazards:

1. Slips, trips, and falls. Severe injuries can result, including fractures, sprains, and fatalities. Common causes include clutter, loose cables, wet floors, and insufficient lighting.
2. Ergonomic hazards. Ergonomic hazards can result in musculoskeletal issues that include back pain, tendonitis, and carpal tunnel. These can be caused by a poorly designed workspace, prolonged sitting or standing, and repetitive motions.
3. Electrical hazards. Electrical hazards can have serious consequences, including electric burns, shock, and electrocution. Causes may be damaged equipment, faulty wiring, or overloaded outlets.
4. Noise hazards. Prolonged exposure to excessive noise levels can lead to increased stress, loss of hearing, and sleep disruption. Workers in the construction, manufacturing, and transportation industries are often at risk.

FAQs

What Industry Has the Most Workplace Accidents?

Across all sectors, the construction industry reports the most workplace accidents. According to data from OSHA, there were over 10,000 residential building construction accidents reported in 2023. The high rate of accidents in the construction industry can be attributed to the many hazards inherent in construction areas.

This can include uneven surfaces, exposure to hazardous materials, and heavy machinery. Common incidents include falls, electrocution, being struck by unsecured objects, and being caught between accidents.

Which Industry Has the Highest Accident Rate?

The industry with the highest accident rate is the construction industry. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported there were 21,400 nonfatal injuries resulting from falls, trips, and slips in 2020. Falls were also reported as the leading cause of death among construction workers and accounted for 42.9% of all workplace deaths due to falls.

Additionally, there were 1,500 reported cases of construction injuries resulting from exposure to harmful environments or substances in 2020.

Which Industry Has the Highest Risk for Workers?

The industry that has the highest risk for workers is the construction industry. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show there were more nonfatal slips, trips, and falls in the construction industry (52.5 per 100,000 full-time workers) than all other sectors combined (22.9) in 2020. Other industries that report high incidents of workplace injuries and fatalities include transportation, warehousing, agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting.

What Work Industry Has the Most Deaths?

The work industry with the most deaths is the construction industry. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show that one in five fatal accidents occurred on a construction site. Fatal work injuries fell 3.7% from 2022 to 2023. There were a total of 5,283 fatal work injuries recorded in the United States in 2023, producing an injury rate of 3.5 fatalities per 100,000 full-time equivalent (FTE) workers, according to the BLS.

Hire a Trusted Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

A workplace injury can leave you feeling overwhelmed and worried about what your future will look like. Concerns around your recovery, medical bills, and lost wages can be extremely stressful. Suisman Shapiro Attorneys-At-Law is a talented group with decades of legal experience who can clearly explain your options and guide you through a workers’ compensation claim. Please contact the office to schedule a consultation and learn how our workers’ compensation attorneys can help.