Disability News

10 Jobs that can be Detrimental to your Health

For the 25 million working-age adults across Canada, most of the work week is spent at their jobs. Being employed is an integral part of being a self-sustaining adult member of society and can even be a source of personal motivation and joy, but, unfortunately, many people work at jobs that can affect their physical and mental health and, in some cases, even cause disability. The impact of being at an unhealthy job is only amplified by the fact that most adults spend between 40 and 50 hours at their jobs each week. That length of time at an unhealthy job is enough to cause long-term, sometimes irreversible, harm, which can lead to work disability.

To help protect workers from disability or long-term health issues associated with certain jobs, it is important to recognize which types of work are the unhealthiest and have the highest risk for disability. For those who suffer from a disability developed as a result of their job, long-term disability may be an option to consider to help with any financial difficulties you may have due to your disability.

What makes a Job Unhealthy?

A job can be unhealthy for several reasons, ranging from the job’s location to the duties and nature of the job itself. Another consideration that needs to be taken into account is the employee’s age and physical and mental conditioning – for example, jobs that may not negatively affect the health of someone younger may have a significant effect on someone older or someone with less experience or physical ability. It’s not always the case that jobs are more accessible for people who are bigger or strong – while positions in manufacturing or construction might be easier for someone with greater physical strength, having a smaller physical stature could be beneficial for positions that require fitting into tight spaces such as being an airplane pilot or working as a stagehand in a theatre. Since jobs are routine and work positions often require certain intellectual and physical skillset, different factors can contribute to a job being unhealthy for employees:

Poor posture: Long hours spent in an uncomfortable posture can lead to chronic neck and back pain, which can eventually cause disability. Jobs like retail clerks and dental hygienists require standing or bending for long periods, which can cause disability over time.

Repetitive motion: Jobs that involve repetitive motion, such as typing, assembly line work, and sewing, can lead to disability due to the strain it puts on muscles and joints. Carpal tunnel syndrome is just one example of a disability that can result from repetitive motion.

Poor ergonomics: Jobs such as working in a factory or warehouse require employees to lift heavy objects, which can cause disability due to strain on the joints and muscles and back pain. This is one example of a job that might be more unhealthy for an individual with less physical strength, whereas someone with more strength may not experience disability from the job.

Exposure to hazardous substances: Jobs such as those in the scientific community, chemical industry, or metalworking require workers to be exposed to potentially dangerous chemicals and materials. Prolonged exposure can cause disability due to respiratory diseases, skin irritation, and other health problems.

High risk of injury: Jobs that involve working with hazardous materials or being in dangerous environments are at an increased risk of disability due to the inherent risks involved. Occupations such as construction work, logging, and oil drilling are especially hazardous and disability is a major concern for those employed in these fields.

Requiring long hours at work: Ontario nurses are often required to work long hours, which can lead to disability due to fatigue and physical strain. The same goes for many other professionals, such as doctors and truck drivers, who are often required to work very long hours in order to meet their job requirements. Chronic sleep deprivation for individuals who work at these sorts of jobs for years can result in serious medical issues like obesity, heart disease, and depression.

10 of the unhealthiest jobs in the world

1. Radiologists: working in hospitals with patients who are often in a weakened state, radiologists are exposed to radiation from the machinery used to take X-rays and other imaging tests. Even with the protective equipment and protocols in place to keep them safe, the radiation that they are exposed to regularly can result in the development of medical issues such as cancer over time. Also, Radiologists often face health issues related to posture and eye strain due to long hours spent interpreting images on computer screens. Sitting for extended periods in poor posture can lead to neck, shoulder, and back pain, as well as repetitive stress injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome. Constantly staring at screens also causes eye strain, leading to headaches, dry eyes, and blurred vision. Over time, these physical demands can significantly impact a radiologist’s comfort and overall well-being. Proper ergonomics and regular breaks are essential to minimize these risks.

2. Miners: the mining industry is one of the most dangerous industries in the world. Miners work long hours in extremely hazardous conditions, such as underground mines, where they are exposed to toxic substances and heavy machinery that can result in disability due to injuries and safety hazards. Prolonged exposure to dust can lead to respiratory diseases such as black lung disease, silicosis, and COPD, which cause long-term breathing difficulties. Constant exposure to loud machinery also puts miners at risk for noise-induced hearing loss. Additionally, working in confined spaces with heavy equipment increases the likelihood of musculoskeletal injuries and other physical trauma. These conditions highlight the importance of protective measures in the mining industry.

3. Truck drivers: Truck driving is a physically demanding job that can lead to several health problems due to the nature of the work. Long hours spent sitting in one position can cause musculoskeletal issues, such as back, neck, and joint pain. The lack of movement also contributes to poor circulation, which can increase the risk of developing blood clots or deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Additionally, the sedentary nature of the job often leads to weight gain and obesity, as drivers have limited opportunities for exercise while on the road. This lifestyle can also contribute to cardiovascular diseases and other metabolic conditions, like diabetes.

Truck drivers also face mental and emotional health challenges. Irregular and long working hours, along with extended periods away from home, can lead to sleep deprivation and fatigue, increasing the risk of accidents. Many drivers experience stress due to tight schedules, traffic conditions, and isolation from family and social connections. Poor sleep, combined with an unhealthy diet, often consisting of fast food, can exacerbate health issues, contributing to a cycle of physical and mental strain.

4. Construction workers: construction work is extremely dangerous, with falls from high places and heavy machinery being major sources of disability. Injuries like slips and falls, crushed limbs, and head trauma can all result in complications like spinal cord injury (SCI) and paralysis. Construction workers are also at risk of disability due to long-term exposure to asbestos, dust, and fumes emitted by the building materials. Working long hours in extreme temperatures can also lead to disability due to fatigue and other medical issues.

5. First responders: Working as a first responder can take a significant toll on mental health due to the high-pressure, unpredictable nature of the job. Constant exposure to traumatic events, such as accidents, violent incidents, and medical emergencies, can lead to conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Witnessing distressing situations repeatedly, without sufficient time to process emotions, can leave first responders emotionally drained and susceptible to burnout. The emotional weight of saving lives, often in dire circumstances, can create feelings of guilt or helplessness when outcomes are unfavorable, further compounding mental health struggles.

Shift work and being in harm’s way add additional layers of strain. Irregular schedules disrupt normal sleep patterns, leading to chronic sleep deprivation, which impacts both mental and physical well-being. Constantly being on alert, whether in day or night shifts, puts first responders at risk for sleep disorders and heightens stress levels, making them more vulnerable to mental fatigue and emotional dysregulation. Additionally, the knowledge that they are routinely placing themselves in dangerous situations—whether it’s dealing with fires, violence, or hazardous environments—can result in heightened anxiety and long-term psychological stress. Support systems, counseling, and regular mental health check-ins are crucial to help first responders manage these challenges and maintain their overall well-being.

6. Dentists: dentists are exposed to hazardous materials such as formaldehyde and mercury, which can cause disability due to long-term exposure. They also work in close contact with patients, which can expose them to viruses and bacteria. Spending hours in a seated position looking at small objects through a magnifying glass also puts dentists at risk of disability due to eye strain and lifestyle diseases like obesity from being sedentary for much of their working day.

7. Flight attendants: Being a flight attendant can be unhealthy due to several factors related to the nature of the job. Irregular sleep patterns and frequent time zone changes contribute to chronic fatigue, disrupting circadian rhythms and leading to long-term sleep disorders. This constant disruption can result in physical and mental exhaustion, as well as impair cognitive function and decision-making abilities. Additionally, long hours of standing and walking in confined spaces can cause musculoskeletal problems, such as back and joint pain, and increase the risk of developing varicose veins due to poor circulation.

Flight attendants are also exposed to high levels of stress, stemming from managing passenger needs, handling in-flight emergencies, and dealing with unruly or difficult passengers. This stress can take a toll on their mental health, contributing to anxiety and burnout. Furthermore, constant exposure to low cabin humidity and recycled air can lead to dehydration, respiratory issues, and an increased risk of contracting infections like colds and the flu. The combination of physical strain, irregular hours, and exposure to health risks makes the role of a flight attendant physically and mentally demanding.

8. Oil rig operators: working on an oil rig requires long hours of physically demanding labour in difficult and hazardous conditions. This can result in disability due to musculoskeletal injuries and exposure to hazardous materials like oil, gas, and diesel fumes. The long hours spent working on the rigs can also lead to disability due to fatigue and lifestyle diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.

9. Garbage truck drivers and collectors: Being a garbage collector can be physically and mentally unhealthy due to the demanding and hazardous nature of the job. Physical strain is common, as garbage collectors regularly lift heavy loads, which can lead to musculoskeletal injuries, particularly to the back, shoulders, and knees. The repetitive motions of lifting and carrying also increase the risk of long-term joint and muscle damage. Exposure to harsh weather conditions, whether extreme heat, cold, or rain, can further contribute to physical exhaustion and dehydration, affecting overall well-being.

Additionally, garbage collectors are frequently exposed to hazardous materials, including sharp objects, chemicals, and biohazardous waste, which increases the risk of infections, cuts, and exposure to toxic substances. The constant exposure to dust, fumes, and bacteria can also lead to respiratory problems and skin irritations. Mental health can be affected by the high-stress nature of working in dangerous environments, dealing with unpleasant odors, and facing the risk of injury daily, all of which can contribute to stress, anxiety, and fatigue.

10. Industrial Welder: Being an industrial welder is particularly unhealthy due to the constant exposure to a range of physical, chemical, and environmental hazards. Welders work with high-temperature equipment to fuse metals, which exposes them to intense heat and the risk of severe burns, even with proper protective gear. Additionally, ultraviolet (UV) radiation from welding arcs can cause a condition called welding flash or photokeratitis, a painful eye injury similar to a sunburn on the cornea. This can result in temporary vision loss, eye irritation, and long-term damage if proper eye protection isn’t consistently used.

Another major health risk for welders is exposure to toxic fumes and gases. Welding metals, especially in confined spaces, releases hazardous substances like metal fumes, ozone, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxides. Inhalation of these fumes can lead to respiratory issues, such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, or even metal fume fever—a flu-like condition caused by inhaling zinc oxide fumes. Over time, chronic exposure to these chemicals increases the risk of lung cancer and other respiratory diseases. Welders may also encounter loud noises from heavy machinery, leading to hearing loss if proper ear protection isn’t worn.

Beyond these direct health hazards, industrial welders often work in uncomfortable and dangerous environments, such as tight spaces or elevated heights, which increases the risk of falls, injuries, and long-term musculoskeletal issues due to the repetitive physical demands of the job. These combined factors make industrial welding one of the more physically demanding and unhealthy professions.

Long-term Disability Benefits for Disabled Workers

There are options available for individuals who have suffered injury or illness because of their unhealthy jobs and are unable to continue working. In addition to company-provided sick leave, long-term disability is an option they should consider. Long-term disability is a type of disability that lasts for more than a year and can be the financial assistance that allows you to access support to help with your disability:

• salary replacement
• medical and disability-related expenses
• therapy (both mental health and physical) expenses
• equipment to help with life at home (e.g. for individuals with physical disabilities)

Disability lawyers are also available to provide legal advice and help those suffering from disabilities due to their unhealthy jobs obtain the benefits they deserve. They can help individuals apply for disability benefits designed to provide financial assistance while unable to work. Knowing the risks of disability associated with certain professions can help people make informed decisions about their career paths and ensure they remain healthy and safe in the workplace. Knowing the options available in case disability occurs can help provide peace of mind when protecting one’s financial security.

Suffer from a Job-Related Illness or Injury and Denied Long-Term Disability Benefits?

If you’ve been wrongfully denied long-term disability benefits, we understand the uncertainty and stress this can cause. At Lalande Disability Lawyers, we focus on helping clients navigate the complexities of insurance disputes to recover the benefits they’re entitled to.  Since 2003, we’ve been helping claimants whose disability benefits have been stopped or denied. Please don’t hesitate to call us, no matter where you are in Canada, at 1-844-4-Disability or send us a confidential email through our website – and we’ll set up a meeting to explain disability rights and legal options at no cost to you. Remember, our consultations are 100% free, and if we work together, you don’t pay legal fees unless we win your case.

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