Even though careful and diligent employers work hard to reduce the chance their employees will sustain a work-related injury, injuries are eventually inevitable. Some professions are pretty low risk, such as typical office work. However, there are other jobs that involve an inherently higher level of risk. Understanding which professions more often lead to injury or even death can help you take measures to reduce the risk to your employees.
One category of people who are at high risk for workplace injuries is those who work at great heights. This includes people such as window washers, roofers, and painters. In recognition of the extra risk involved in working at great heights, some professions have extra workers’ compensation coverage requirements in terms of sole proprietors and the inability to opt-out of carrying workers’ compensation insurance.
Unsurprisingly, first responders also work in high-risk occupations. It is obvious that police officers risk life and limb on a daily basis while dealing with criminals. In addition, EMTs face risk by being required to go into unknown circumstances with injured or very ill people. EMTs also can potentially be injured when lifting and moving incapacitated patients. Similarly, firefighters may have to shift heavy objects in order to save fire victims. They also obviously face risk of burns and heat-related injury. Moreover, they can be exposed to dangerous chemicals while on the job. The California Labor Code contains extra provisions to protect first responders’ ability to receive workers’ compensation benefits.
Truck drivers are also in a high-risk occupation. There is a level of risk involved any time you are in a vehicle on the road. Distracted and impaired drivers are a very real danger. Moreover, some cargo carried in large trucks is hazardous, such as chemicals or gasoline. Employers should take careful measures to make sure their trucks are in good working order. Keeping the vehicles in good repair will help make sure the driver and passengers stay safe, as well as protecting others on the road.
Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals also face high risk in their occupations. They are regularly exposed to potentially contagious and even life-altering diseases. Moreover, some patients can be combative or violent. Finally, there is a risk of injury from lifting and moving patients.
If you are a business owner and your employees are in high-risk occupations, it is important for you to understand your rights and responsibilities. We can help you understand the workers’ compensation system and how your business fits within it.