Colorado’s Top 5 High-Risk Occupations for Workplace Injuries

Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado’s landscapes are matched by the
challenges faced by workers in certain high-risk occupations. From the construction sites in
Denver to the remote agricultural fields on the Western Slope, the Centennial State presents
unique workplace hazards that demand attention. In this blog, the Denver workers’
compensation attorneys explore the top five occupations in Colorado where the risk of
workplace injuries is notably heightened.

Construction Workers

With a booming real estate market and constant infrastructure development, construction
workers in Colorado face a myriad of workplace hazards. The elevation itself can pose
challenges, exacerbating the risks associated with tasks such as working at heights, operating
heavy machinery, and navigating uneven terrains. Falls, electrocution, and injuries from falling
objects are common in this dynamic industry. Construction employers in Colorado must prioritize
altitude-specific safety training, ensure proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and
implement stringent protocols to mitigate these risks.

Ski Industry Personnel

Colorado is renowned for its world-class ski resorts, attracting winter sports enthusiasts from
around the globe. Behind the scenes, the ski industry workforce faces a unique set of
challenges. Ski patrollers, lift operators, and other personnel contend with the inherent dangers
of mountainous terrain, extreme weather conditions, and the operation of complex machinery.
Injuries in the ski industry can range from fractures due to accidents on the slopes to overuse
injuries from repetitive tasks. Employers in this sector should prioritize comprehensive safety
training, maintain equipment regularly, and implement strict protocols for inclement weather
conditions.

Oil and Gas Extraction Workers

The energy industry is a significant contributor to Colorado’s economy, but it comes with its own
set of risks, particularly for those involved in oil and gas extraction. Workers in this sector deal
with heavy machinery, exposure to hazardous chemicals, and the potential for fires or
explosions. The remote locations of many extraction sites can also complicate emergency
response times. Employers in the oil and gas industry must focus on safety measures such as
regular equipment inspections, proper training on emergency procedures, and the use of
advanced safety technology to minimize risks.

Agricultural Workers

Colorado’s vast plains and fertile valleys make agriculture a cornerstone of the state’s economy.
However, the agricultural workforce faces its own set of challenges, including exposure to
unpredictable weather, heavy machinery operation, and manual labor in remote areas. Injuries
in this sector often result from equipment accidents, strains from repetitive motions, and
exposure to agricultural chemicals. Employers should prioritize safety training, provide proper
personal protective equipment, and implement measures to address the unique hazards
associated with agricultural work in Colorado.

Healthcare Professionals in High-Altitude Areas

Healthcare workers, especially those in high-altitude areas like mountain towns and resorts,
face distinct challenges. Emergency medical personnel, nurses, and doctors working in remote
clinics must contend with the difficulties of providing medical care in challenging terrains and
adverse weather conditions. Additionally, the elevation itself can contribute to the complexity of
certain medical procedures and impact healthcare professionals’ well-being. Employers in
healthcare must ensure altitude-specific training, provide appropriate equipment, and have
protocols in place to address the challenges unique to high-altitude medical care.

Navigating the challenges of workplace safety in Colorado requires a targeted approach,
considering the state’s diverse industries and geographical features. Employers across these
high-risk occupations must invest in tailored safety measures, emphasizing specific training to
decrease the chances of altitude sickness, regular equipment maintenance, and the
implementation of protocols that address the unique challenges posed by Colorado’s dynamic
work environments. By fostering a culture of safety, Colorado can continue to thrive while
ensuring the well-being of its workforce in the face of inherent workplace hazards.