In manufacturing firms, carpenters may assist in moving or installing machinery. As in other building trades, carpentry work is sometimes strenuous. Prolonged standing, climbing, bending, and kneeling are often necessary. Carpenters risk injury from slips or falls, working with sharp or rough materials, and using of sharp tools and power equipment. Many carpenters work outdoors.
Some carpenters change employers each time they finish a construction job.
Others alternate between working for a contractor and working as contractors themselves on small jobs. Employment Carpenters, the largest group of building trades workers, held about 996,000 jobs in 1996. Four of every 5 worked for contractors who build, remodel, or repair buildings and other structures. Most of the remainder worked for manufacturing firms, government agencies, wholesale and retail establishments, and schools. Carpenters are employed throughout the country in almost every community.