The Answer
The HSE recently published its annual report outlining the number of fatalities, incidents, and cases of work-related ill-health in UK workplaces. The main thrust of this report was that there were nearly two million cases of work-related injuries and ill-health this year alone, with the report also marking an increase in fatalities in the construction industry.
The Main Findings
1) 8 million people are suffering from work-related illness and injuries, of which there were:
- 875,000 workers suffering from work-related stress, depression, or anxiety.
- 473,000 cases of work-related musculoskeletal conditions.
2) 2,268 cases of Mesothelioma. Asbestos-related deaths due to past exposure.
3) 135 workers killed in work-related accidents, with this figure broken down into:
- Construction – 45 cases (up from 29 in previous year, with falls from height as the biggest single cause)
- Agriculture/Forestry/Fishing – 21 cases
- Manufacturing – 15 cases
- Wholesale/Retail/Accommodation/Food – 15 cases
- Transport/Storage – 15 cases
- Admin/Support Services – 6 Cases
- Waste/Recycling – 6 Cases
- Other – 12 Cases
4) 561,000 workers sustained work-related injuries.
5) 60,645 injuries to workers reported under RIDDOR.
6) 2 million working days lost due to work-related illness and injuries.
7) £20.7 billion estimated cost for work-related injuries and ill-health.
The Risk/Threat
While great strides have been made in health and safety, concerns have been raised by the 55 per cent increase in deaths in the construction sector, as well as the £1.9 billion increase in costs to the economy.
This highlights the importance of having and maintaining a sound health and safety system at work. The human cost – coupled with the emotional impact and the financial implications, are starkly clear.
It should also be borne in mind that such incidents can give rise to private civil claims for personal injuries, inevitably leading to litigation, legal costs, and reputational damage to the business.
What You Need To Do
Employers should take heed of the report and learn from the lessons it highlights. Failure to take health and safety seriously can kill, maim and financially-cripple a business. Establishing, maintaining, and regularly updating your health and safety systems will minimise the risks, create a healthy and safe working environment, and lead to a happier workforce.
For more information and advice, employers are advised to call the HS Helpline on 01455 852 028.
