The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has released its latest annual statistics for the UK, covering the period from 2023 to 2024. These figures provide valuable insights into the state of workplace safety, highlighting key trends and areas that require ongoing attention.
Key Takeaways from the 2024 HSE Statistics
Workplace Injuries and Costs:
- The number of non-fatal injuries reported by employers increased to 61,663. While this remains lower than pre-COVID levels, the rise in injuries is concerning and underscores the need for better health and safety practices.
- The cost of workplace injuries and work-related ill health has risen to £21.6 billion, placing additional strain on businesses and the UK economy.
Work-related Fatalities:
- Tragically, the number of work-related fatalities has increased slightly, from 135 to 138. The leading causes of these fatalities include falls from height, being struck by moving vehicles, and being struck by moving objects.
- This highlights the importance of ongoing efforts to reduce fatalities and injuries in high-risk industries.
Mental Health:
- The number of people experiencing work-related stress, anxiety, and depression surged during the pandemic but has shown signs of improvement in 2024, dropping to 800,000.
- This decline reflects the growing awareness among businesses about the importance of managing mental health in the workplace.
Work-related Ill Health:
- The number of employees suffering from work-related ill health had been increasing year on year, reaching a high of 1.8 million in recent years.
- In 2024, this figure has decreased to 1.7 million, indicating a positive shift but still highlighting the need for further action to improve overall worker wellbeing.
Long-Term Health Issues:
- Another concerning statistic is the 12,000 deaths attributed to lung disease and 2,268 deaths from mesothelioma, caused by past exposure to hazardous materials in the workplace.
How ISO Standards Can Help
While the statistics show some progress, there is still much work to be done. One of the most effective ways to improve workplace safety and reduce these numbers is by implementing internationally recognized standards such as ISO 45001 for Occupational Health and Safety Management.
ISO 45001 can support businesses in several key areas:
- Proactive Risk Management:
ISO 45001 helps businesses identify potential risks before they lead to injury or illness, enabling companies to implement preventative measures and avoid accidents. - Mental Health Support:
The standard encourages the development of a supportive work environment where mental health is prioritized, helping businesses address the growing concerns around stress, anxiety, and depression in the workplace. - Compliance and Best Practices:
By following ISO 45001, companies can ensure they meet the latest health and safety regulations and standards, promoting a safer working environment for all employees. - Reduced Costs:
Effective health and safety practices reduce the likelihood of accidents, injuries, and illnesses, leading to lower costs related to workplace compensation, insurance, and legal fees.
Commitment to Improvement
At J McLeish Consultancy, we are dedicated to helping businesses create safer, healthier workplaces. If you’d like to review your health and safety practices and explore how ISO standards can support you in reducing workplace injuries and ill health, we’re here to help.
Feel free to contact us for more information or assistance in implementing ISO 45001 or other health and safety measures.
