Introduction - The objective of this study is to describe suicide risk by occupation. It is based on data from the pilot phase in the Rhône-Alpes region of the "Samotrace" occupational mental health surveillance program, developed by the French Institute for Public Health Surveillance (InVS). Materials and Methods - The sample was selected by random sampling from a population of employees monitored by a network of approximately 80 occupational physicians between January 2006 and March 2008. Suicide risk was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), administered by the occupational physician. Employment was described by occupation and industry sector. Suicide risk is described here by sex, age, socioeconomic status, and industry sector. Results - Suicide risk affects nearly 10% of women and 7% of men. Among men, this risk follows a socioeconomic gradient, with the most affluent socioeconomic groups being the least affected. Although the results are not statistically significant, the health and social services sector and the transportation and communications sector may be particularly affected. Among women, the suicide risk by occupation is less pronounced. Conclusion - The identification of vulnerable populations, particularly those at high risk of suicide, should lead to the implementation of specific prevention measures. (R.A.)