West Virginia’s economy has historically centered on resource extraction industries (e.g. mining, logging). Nowadays the state is home to many different fields, from aerospace manufacturing to information technology, but there are still many residents employed in manufacturing, transportation, mining, and forestry. Many of these jobs are dangerous for workers, which is likely why West Virginia sees a high number of workers’ compensation claims every year.
The Prim Law Firm advocates for West Virginia workers who are injured on the job. State laws surrounding workplace safety and personal injury claims are complicated. We help victims and their families understand their options for seeking compensation. If you’re injured at work, contact our team online or call our office in Hurricane at 304-201-2425.
What are the most dangerous jobs in West Virginia?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) tracks occupational fatalities throughout the country. Based on BLS statistics on fatal and nonfatal occupational injuries from 2020, here are some of the most dangerous jobs that are common in West Virginia:
Mining and resources extraction
In West Virginia in 2020, there were 10 fatal injuries in the “natural resources and mining sector,” which includes agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting, mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction. For nonfatal injuries, this sector had an incidence rate of 2.9 cases per 100 full-time workers.
Construction
There were 6 fatal injuries in the construction industry in West Virginia in 2020. The incidence rate of nonfatal occupational injuries was 2.6 per 100 full-time workers.
Manufacturing
In 2020, there were 4 fatal injuries in the manufacturing industry in West Virginia. The incidence rate of nonfatal injuries per 100 workers was the same as in the construction industry: 2.6.
Transportation
In West Virginia in 2020, there were a total of 9 fatal injuries in the transportation and warehousing industry. The incidence rate of nonfatal injuries in this sector was 2.4 per 100 workers.
