10 industries with high workplace fatality rates.

From stress to vehicle, chemical, and overexertion injuries, slips and falls to struck-by events, the workplace can be a dangerous place to be. Some industries, even more than others. Whether you’re on the job hunt or you’re a longtime employee, knowing the risks of your industry is critical.

Wondering if your industry poses a higher risk? PropertyCasualty360 shares the 10 industries with high workplace fatality rates per 100,000 workers. Read on to see what they are, then see how you can promote safety.

10 industries with high workplace fatality rates

10. Transportation
2022 fatality rate: 6*

9. Chemical
2022 fatality rate: 6.1*

8. Petrochemical, downstream
2022 fatality rate: 6.2*

7. Petrochemical, upstream, offshore
2022 fatality rate: 6.4*

6. Paper, packaging, and building products
2022 fatality rate: 6.6*

5. Food and beverage
2022 fatality rate: 7*

4. Construction
2022 fatality rate: 7.5*

3. Utilities, distribution, and power generation
2022 fatality rate: 7.7*

2. Petrochemical, midstream (pipelines)
2022 fatality rate: 9.1*

1. Petrochemical, upstream, onshore
2022 fatality rate: 9.8*

*Fatality rates are per 100,000 workers, based on a review of 2022 data from ISN Software Corp.

To make any workplace safer …

Train employees thoroughly. Conduct training when employees are hired, and schedule refresher courses so safety is always top of mind. Training can also help prevent OSHA’s Fatal Four injuries on the worksite: falls, electrocution, struck-by accidents, and caught-in/caught-between events.
Provide personal protective equipment (PPE). PPE will look different from workplace to workplace. Because it’s not one-size-fits-all, have the gear your team members need for the job at hand. And have enough of it.
Promote open communication. Team members on all levels should feel comfortable reporting hazards or raising concerns. In addition, team members should promptly communicate risks to each other, if they arise.
Hire safety services. Well-rounded safety programs can help prevent work-related accidents and injuries. Ask your insurance agent if your commercial insurer offers loss control services, including safety services experts who can visit your worksite, evaluate your existing safety programs, offer suggestions for improvement, and provide tools to develop them.
Work with injury triage. First aid or self-care can be used to reduce or eliminate emergency room fees in about 40% of worksite injuries. When necessary, injury triage will refer injured employees to in-network facilities to take advantage of pre-negotiated fees. The service protects your employees by determining the best route of care, quickly.
Learn from mistakes. If accidents or injuries happened in the past, use them as learning opportunities to prevent similar mishaps going forward.

While some industries are prone to higher workplace fatality rates, all are at risk for workplace injuries. Follow the safety tips above and ensure you have protection for all areas of your business. For added peace of mind, work with a local, independent agent to ensure you have the most comprehensive business coverage.