HSE report highlights construction industry risks

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has released its annual workplace fatality statistics for 2023/24, highlighting the continuing risks posed by falls from height in the UK construction industry. According to the report, 50 workers tragically lost their lives due to falls from height, making it the most common cause of workplace fatalities in this period.

This troubling figure reflects the need for the construction sector, particularly those working with concrete and other high-risk areas, to take additional precautions when performing tasks at height. The HSE urges employers and workers to follow strict safety guidelines to help prevent such avoidable incidents.

Key statistics

• A total of 138 workers were killed in work-related accidents during 2023/24 across all sectors.
• Construction remains the most dangerous industry, with 51 deaths, of which falls from height were a significant contributor.
• Agriculture, forestry, and fishing sectors accounted for 23 fatalities, while the manufacturing industry saw 16 fatalities.
• Of the total fatalities, male workers represented 95% of the victims, with older workers (aged 60 and over) accounting for 34% of the deaths.

HSE’s message to employers

The HSE emphasises the importance of taking necessary precautions before working at height. Employers in the construction industry are advised to ensure that workers are properly trained, equipment is regularly inspected, and safety measures are in place. The HSE's guidance on working safely at height includes:

• Key safety messages for working at height.
• Guidance on ladders and stepladders to ensure safe use.
• Free resources and publications, available on the HSE website, offering further advice on protecting workers from falls.

HSE also highlights that while the overall fatal injury rate to workers has declined over the long term, recent figures show that the numbers are still concerningly high, and action is needed to reverse this trend.

In addition to worker fatalities, the report noted that 87 members of the public were killed in work-related accidents, though this excludes deaths within healthcare and adult social care sectors.

The HSE’s full report and resources are available online, where employers can access detailed guidance on improving workplace safety and reducing the risk of fatal injuries.

For more information, visit the HSE’s dedicated section on working at height.