Transportation and warehousing top the list of the most injury-prone industries, according to a February report from footwear company Kuru.
The researchers used Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data to analyze the most dangerous jobs, citing 2023 figures on nonfatal occupational injuries and illnesses by industry.
“These statistics shine a light on the hidden dangers of everyday jobs—some you might not expect,” the researchers said in a statement announcing the findings. “Workplace injuries don’t affect all industries equally. Some professions carry a far greater risk than others, with workers in these fields facing daily hazards that can lead to accidents and injuries.”
Transportation and warehousing ranked first out of 19 industries, with a rate of 4.5 injuries per 100 full-time workers. Arts, entertainment, and recreation was second, with 4.3 injuries per 100 full-time workers, and agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting ranked third, with 4.2 injuries per 100 full-time workers.
The researchers cited the heavy machinery, long hours, and unpredictable conditions associated with transportation and warehousing as key contributors to the high injury rates.
The report also outlines 10 tips for keeping workers safe across all industries, according to the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA). The top five are:
- Regularly train new employees and offer refresher courses to keep everyone updated on safety protocols.
- Train employees to recognize and address chemical, physical, and biological hazards through regular inspections.
- Ensure proper equipment and training to prevent falls when working at heights, and factor safety costs into job estimates.
- Ensure workers wear essential personal protective equipment, including footwear with anti-slip soles, to minimize injury risks.
- Provide water, rest, and shade for outdoor workers to avoid heat-related issues, and train for emergency heat situations.
Visit Kuru’s website for more on the report.
