Which Jobs Have the Most Workplace Hazards?

When it comes to discussing dangerous occupations, we often default to examples where one misstep can instantly lead to the loss of limbs or even death but what the UK’s most dangerous workplaces have in common is that the majority of work-related illnesses are actually provoked by consistent exposure to conditions that cause sickness over time.

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Bakers, chefs and kitchen staff risk respiratory problems

If you’re a fan of hallmark films, you’ll no doubt have a romantic image of bakers joyfully gliding across the kitchen as they whip up the town’s favourite pastry. Maybe you’re in awe of the chef who spends every waking moment in the kitchen because creating new dishes is their passion?

What you may not be aware of is that baking, cooking and general kitchen work can lead to some pretty nasty illnesses. For bakers (named the most dangerous job in 2020!), the constant use of flour leads to a lot of flour inhalation. In turn, this can cause asthma and other respiratory problems.

Collectively, the use of many ingredients, dish soap and lots of water can lead to allergies and dermatitis.

Hairdressing is hazardous

From hair dye to hairspray and shampoos to perming solutions, barbers and salons are filled with toxic, sickness-inducing fumes.

In 2020, hairdressing was named the sixth most dangerous UK occupation and while the introduction of PPE thanks to COVID-19 has helped mitigate some of the problems, it’s not enough to properly protect hairdressers in the workplace.

For example, the prolonged and constant use of hair products is likely to cause dermatitis and other allergies in many workers.

Construction

Aside from the obvious hazards, construction workers are subjected to harmful dust that can lead to diseases like lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and silicosis.

Unfortunately, this is another occupation where dust goes with the territory, so the proper precautions and safety procedures should always be adhered to.

Farmers and florists deal with more than just flora

While these two occupations differ greatly in what they do, they do have a couple of common foes: herbicides and pesticides, as well as regular exposure to plant allergens (like pollen).

This leaves both florists and farmers vulnerable to a wealth of illnesses including respiratory problems, allergic reactions and dermatitis. In fact, according to the HSE, florists were ranked the third most likely to contract dermatitis at work.

Metal working produces harmful dust

The last occupation on our list is metal workers. This occupation may not come as a surprise – with so much heavy machinery in play, accidents seem extremely likely, right?

More than just accidents, the fumes and dust created in a normal workday are more than enough to provoke asthma, dermatitis and other serious illnesses related to fume and dust inhalation.

A dust and fume extractor like the AirBench would greatly improve the air quality in a workshop, creating a much safer space to work in.

AirBench is made to help keep workplaces safe from dust and fumes.

When working with tools, machinery and raw materials, you and your fellow workmates are at risk of inhaling dangerous fumes and dust particles that can cause severe illness, and in more extreme cases, they can even lead to death.

AirBench works by extracting harmful fumes and particles to create a safer workspace. If you’re ready to create a safer environment for your workers, get in touch and we’ll send you a personalised quote!

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Protect your workspace today!