The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its annual report for the top 10 most dangerous occupations in America. The report showed that the logging industry experienced the highest rate of fatal accidents during 2018. Roofers also made the top 10 list. They experienced fewer workplace fatalities than the top three dangerous industries, but they also suffered nearly twice as many serious injuries as loggers did in the top spot.
As reported by CNBC, roofers often bend, climb and lift heavy objects. These are actions that can cause a worker to experience burn-out and exhaustion, especially when working in outdoor summer temperatures. It may account for the number of roofers stumbling or falling off a roof. While federal law requires employers to provide fall-protection, safety gear and scaffolds, accidents still occur when least expected.
Because roofing is a seasonal occupation, contractors may overschedule repair or installation projects during the months when the weather permits the work. Rushing through projects, however, can contribute to increased accidents and severe injuries.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration issues the most citations to roofing contractors for workplace violations, as reported by Business and Legal Resources EHS. An employer’s repeated citations for sending its workers to job sites lacking fall protection and ladders with safety side rails resulted in one of OSHA’s highest fines.
There is no requirement for an injured employee to prove that he or she was not at fault to file a claim for workers’ compensation. Any injury that occurs during the course of an employee carrying out his or her regular duties may qualify for benefits. An employer’s workers’ compensation insurance carrier may cover an injured worker’s medical expenses, physical therapy and loss of wages during recovery.
