10 Occupations With Disturbingly High Body Counts
3. Underwater Welders (Commerical Divers)
Unlike many of the occupations we have previously discussed, underwater welders are a relatively small and highly specialized group. In the United States, according to the Bureau Of Labor Statistics, there were around 3,380 people working in the field, as of 2018.
At first glance, the fact that an average of approximately 11 underwater welders are reportedly killed every year in the States may not seem all that shocking. However, when you consider how few people are actually working in the field,11 is fairly an alarming number.
The biggest threat those in the profession face is drowning. This often occurs when their air supply cord breaks or becomes detached.
Since welders use high-powered equipment, electric shock is also a potential hazard. Lastly, these divers must try and avoid decompression sickness, which can result in musculoskeletal issues.
According to Major Welding.com, statistically speaking, the occupation is '1,000 times more dangerous than being a police officer'.