Every year, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) publish figures in relation to workplace accidents recorded by them. One of the most sobering statistics they publish is the number of fatalities in the United Kingdom due to accidents at work.
The statistics cover the period from April 2021 to March 2022 and are in relation to accidents at work, rather than deaths occurring as a result of contracting occupational related diseases.
Sadly, 123 workers lost their lives in work related accidents in the period March 2021 to April 2022, with 30 of those death occurring in the construction sector. Alongside this, recorded statistics show that 80 members of the public were also killed following work-related incidents.
The three highest risk industries broadly remain the same, year on year, these being:
- Construction
- Agriculture, forestry and fishing
- Manufacturing
With the introduction of the Health and Safety at Work Act in 1974, there has been a gradual decline in fatalities in the workplace over the years, although as can be seen from these statistics, there is a long way to go before risks are completely eliminated. One of the most common causes of death, which accounts for a fairly high statistic year on year, is due to falling from a height. This figure shows that the construction industry in particular needs to focus on ensuring that their employees are completely protected whilst working using scaffolding, cranes, on high rise platforms etc.
The manufacturing sector also accounted for 22 employee deaths, which includes fatalities as a result of falling into machinery.
The HSE was formed in 1975 and has worked tirelessly to identify and address the improvement of safety conditions at work for almost 50 years. Whilst the UK is one of the safest countries in the world to work, unfortunately for the families of the 123 workers who have died over the last 12 months, this is small consolation, and no doubt their views would be that even one fatality is one too many.
If you or a family member have suffered an injury at work as a result of poor or dangerous health and safety practices, then our personal injury solicitors would be happy to help you with advice on making a claim.
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