Some jobs have a strong association with the risk of a violent incident. Professionals working in law enforcement or security typically recognize that they are vulnerable to violence at almost any time.
Many others could also be at risk of getting hurt due to criminal activity or violence on the job, but may be unaware of that degree of risk. They may have accepted jobs that seem stable and valuable without realizing that they are vulnerable to violence.
The three professions below all have above-average risk of violence on the job. What careers put people at risk of violent encounters?
1. Retail work
Managers, loss prevention specialists and security officers aren’t the only ones targeted by criminal elements in the public service sector. Retail workers, restaurant employees and others in the service industry are at risk of violence due to their interactions with the public.
2. Medical professionals
Hospital employees and other professionals working in medicine see people during major emergencies. Violence is one of the top causes of lost-time incidents in hospitals due to the dangers of interacting with those under the influence of drugs or dealing with mental health challenges.
3. Education workers
Professionals in schools, ranging from culinary workers making nutritious lunches to aides in classrooms, are at risk of violence in the workplace. Students of all ages can lose their tempers and lash out in inappropriate ways. Violence in schools often impacts professionals rather than students.
Workers’ compensation benefits can help those affected by violence in the workplace. Reporting an incident and filing a workers’ compensation claim can help those hurt by violence recoup their losses.