Health and safety at work shows some improvement

29 October 2008

Figures released by the Heath and Safety Executive (HSE) have revealed a drop in the number of people injured or made ill at work.

According to the statistics, major injuries at work have fallen by around 9 per cent since the start of the decade. Work-related ill-health has also fallen across the period, although the rate of improvement here is not as great.

Judith Hackitt, the chair of the HSE, said: “Any improvement in the number of people being injured or made ill by work must be welcomed. However, there is a need for a step change. Of particular concern are the agriculture, construction and waste and recycling industries. I am also concerned that slips and trips – which can have an enormous impact on peoples’ lives – are still not reducing.

“HSE is developing a new strategy that seeks to renew commitment from all those involved in health and safety to tackle these challenges and more. In the difficult and uncertain months ahead I urge employers not to take their eyes off the ball. Good business management will be vital and good health and safety management is an integral part of that. Health and safety contributes positively to competitiveness and should not be sacrificed in times of financial pressure.”

The health and safety statistics for 2007/08 showed that 2.1 million people suffered from work related illnesses. Over 136,000 workers suffered serious injuries. And 34 million working days were lost in the UK due to injury and ill-health.