Across the Garden State, millions of people are employed in industries that keep the regional economy running. These industries include transportation, construction, healthcare, manufacturing and warehousing. Unfortunately, some of these industries feature a significantly higher risk of workplace injuries and fatalities.
Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system designed to provide injured employees with medical care, wage replacement and other benefits in the event that they sustain harm while they’re engaged in work-related activities. However, navigating a claim can still be challenging—especially in high-risk industries where injuries tend to be more serious and more frequent. Employees need to understand their rights accordingly, whether they are employed in some of the most dangerous industries in New Jersey – introduced below – or not. While these industries demand particular attention, harm can happen in any workplace.
Construction
Construction consistently ranks among the most hazardous occupations up and down the East Coast. Workers face daily exposure to risks such as falls from scaffolding, struck-by object injuries, electrocution and equipment accidents. Coastal states—where development is constant—consistently report high injury and fatality rates in this field. Because of the physical nature of construction work, injuries are often severe, leading to extended time away from work and complicated workers’ compensation claims.
Transportation and warehousing
Major ports, shipping hubs and distribution centers dot the Eastern Seaboard. With such infrastructure comes a heavy reliance on truck drivers, freight handlers and warehouse staff in New Jersey. These jobs are often physically demanding, involve long hours and put workers at risk for vehicle collisions, lifting injuries and repetitive stress damage.
Healthcare and social assistance
Though not traditionally viewed as dangerous, the healthcare sector sees high rates of workplace injuries—especially in states with dense urban populations like New Jersey. Nurses, aides and hospital staff frequently suffer from back injuries, slips and falls and even violence from patients. Long shifts and high-stress environments contribute to the risk, making it one of the leading sectors for nonfatal injuries.
Fishing and maritime work
In coastal states such as Maine and North Carolina, commercial fishing and maritime work remain valuable industries. They are also among the most dangerous. Workers face harsh weather, heavy machinery and unpredictable conditions at sea. Injuries in this field are often severe and may involve additional legal considerations under federal maritime laws.
For those working in these high-risk fields, understanding workers’ compensation rights is important. Knowing one’s rights is always a good idea, but it can be especially so in industries where employers may resist or challenge compensation.