The most dangerous jobs in America are also ones that men tend to dominate, such as construction and logging. With high fatalities and injuries in these industries, it may seem that men are far likelier to experience workplace accidents than women are.
Although women suffer fewer job-related injuries, the difference in numbers is not as significant as it seems. Women also tend to experience specific types of injuries. Looking at the data can help explain these facts.
Industry
As mentioned, men tend to work in more dangerous fields. However, other industries are just as hazardous despite lacking the notoriety. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare has the highest occurrences of injuries, as well as a high rate of female workers, making women more prone than men to injury in this sector.
Accident
Although each industry has its own types and rates of hazards, many are common to all job types. These common sources of an accident include:
- Slips, trips and falls
- Exposure to harmful substances
- Contact with equipment
- Transportation accidents
- Fires and explosions
Transportation incidents, along with workplace violence from coworkers and/or patients, are more prevalent among female employees.
Injury
Due to the nature of their jobs, women are likelier to sustain certain injuries. Many women work indoors, such as hospitals and offices, leading to musculoskeletal disorders from repetitive motion and overexertion, and strains and fractures from slipping and falling. Women also tend to develop more diseases and issues with reproductive health, as well as mental health issues from job-related stress or hostile work environments.
Women may gain some protection from staying out of dangerous occupations, but workplace accidents can happen to anyone regardless of gender. Female workers should ensure proper training in their fields, bring up safety concerns to supervisors and seek medical attention at the first sign of health problems. If an injury occurs, it is important to speak to an attorney right away on how to pursue workers’ compensation.
