According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries, homicide is the fourth leading cause of death for workers on the job.  In 2005 alone, 564 American workers died from workplace homicide.  Non-fatal incidents, like stabbings and assaults, are even more prevalent.  In order to protect your health and safety while at work, you must first identify the risk factors associated with America’s most dangerous occupations, then take steps to guard yourself.

Risk Factors

The National Institute for Occupational Safety has determined that anyone in any job can become the victim of workplace violence; however, some occupations carry more risk than others.  This quiz can help determine the risk factors at your job:

1. I have regular contact with the public.

____ Yes            ____ No

2. I exchange money and use a cash register at my job.

____ Yes            ____ No

3. I deliver passengers, goods, or services on a daily basis.

____ Yes            ____ No

4. I work by myself or with a small group of people.

____ Yes            ____ No

5. I often work late at night or very early in the morning.

____ Yes            ____ No

6. I work in a high-crime area.

____ Yes            ____ No

7. I work in a health care, social service, or criminal justice setting.

____ Yes            ____ No

If you answered yes to any one of the above questions, you have identified a risk factor at your job.  The more “yes” responses you have, the higher your statistical risks are that you may experience workplace violence.

The Riskiest Jobs

Once you have evaluated the risk factors for your job, check to see if your occupation is on the following list.  Compiled by the National Crime Victimization Survey, the occupations listed below are the most likely to experience violent crime while at work:

1. Police Officers and Security Guards
2. Taxi Drivers
3. Prison Guards
4. Bartenders
5. Mental Health Professionals
6. Gas Station Attendants
7. Liquor Store Clerks
8. Retail Clerks
9. Junior High Teachers
10. Bus Drivers

Surprised by the results?  Chances are you didn’t expect some of these occupations – like teachers – to be so high on the list.  Other occupations that didn’t make the top 10 but are still a concern include pizza delivery and special education, high school, elementary, and college teachers.

If your job is putting you at risk, talk to your employer about preventative strategies that can minimize your likelihood of experiencing workplace violence.  Help establish a prevention policy at your job that includes procedures for emergency situations and violent incidents in the workplace.  Employees may consider carrying mace or a personal alarm; likewise, business-owners will find that installing security cameras can increase the safety of workers.  Don’t become another statistic -- learn how to protect yourself, your health, and your co-workers while on the job.