The work histories of 75 completed suicides and 150 controls were compared to test Durkheim's theory of the protective nature of work. The suicides showed more unemployment, more absence through illness, had more frequent job changes and held their jobs for shorter periods. They were less likely to retire gradually. There was no difference in social class mobility. Suicides were more likely to come from high risk occupations. The comparatively poor work record of the suicides is attributed to their high level of psychiatric morbidity.