by Sandra Piddock

Created on: February 14, 2011   Last Updated: February 15, 2011

Almost any occupation may have dangers lurking for the unwary worker, although stringent health and safety regulations have made the workplace a much safer location in recent years. However, some jobs are much more dangerous than others, and people in these occupations are less likely to survive to pensionable age. These are some of the most dangerous occupations in the UK.

Fishing and Seafaring

The popular BBC series 'Trawlermen' underlined just how dangerous fishing for your living can be. Technological advances have made boats more stable in rough seas and it's much easier to predict weather patterns these days. However, fishing is still one of the most dangerous occupations in the UK, with 103 in every 100,000 fishermen dying at work.*

It's pretty hazardous being a merchant seaman, as well - 52 in every 100,000 merchant sailors will meet their end on the high seas.* It's a big improvement on 200 years ago, when one in 63 seamen could not expect to return home safely, but the statistics show that a life on the ocean wave can sometimes end up with burial at sea. Working on the water for a living is a very hazardous career choice.

Bomb disposal and explosives experts

This one speaks for itself. Why anyone would choose to follow this occupation is a mystery, but it's a good job people are prepared to risk their own lives to save others. Not only is there a risk of the device exploding, bomb disposal crews in war zones are also at the mercy of passing snipers eager for the kill. In the army, bomb disposal experts are all called 'Felix' - because they have as many lives as a cat.* This type of gallows humour is typical of dangerous occupations, as it helps to relieve tension.

Lorry drivers

Modern vehicles are safer than ever before, and roads are always being improved, yet 25% of deaths on British roads involve working drivers such as lorry drivers, delivery men and commercial travellers.* Long hours and having to meet deadlines set by office staff who have no idea of the problems facing drivers on today's roads are thought to contribute to this surprising and alarming statistic.

Building workers

Around 30% of work related deaths in the UK since 2006 occured on construction sites,* making building a very dangerous occupation. Construction workers who work at heights, such as scaffolders, are more at risk than general construction workers, and electrocution is also an occupational hazard.

Farmers

Only 1.5% of the total UK population work on farms, yet 20% of all work-related deaths occur in agriculture.* Many of these fatalities involve machinery with moving parts, so technology isn't all it's cracked up to be - at least where farming is concerned. It's hard to imagine dear old Dobbin managing to cause such carnage as he pulled the plough through the field. Loss of concentration or taking short cuts to speed up the work at busy times account for a significant number of workplace deaths.

While any job may have unexpected dangers, these statistics indicate that best work practice is to follow safety procedures and maintain concentration at all times - particularly if you are employed in one of these dangerous occupations.

*accidentsdirect.com/work-accident-claims/dangerous-j obs-for-brits.aspx

*http://www.careerbuilder.co.uk/Article/CB-127-Job-Se arch-Britains-Most-Dangerous-Jobs/

*http://www.fwi.co.uk/Articles/2010/01/12/119475/Farm ing-one-of-the-most-dangerous-jobs-in-UK.htm

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