A Snapshot of Workplace Health and Safety in Great Britain: 2023–2024

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has released its latest annual statistics on work-related health and safety in Great Britain, offering a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by employers and employees alike. The figures highlight the human and economic cost of workplace illness and injury and the urgent need for continued focus on health and safety practices.

Key Findings

Work-Related Illnesses
Workplace health continues to be a pressing concern, with:

  • 1.7 million people suffering from a work-related illness.
    • Of these, 776,000 cases are related to work-induced stress, depression, or anxiety, underscoring the toll of mental health challenges in the workplace.
    • 543,000 workers reported musculoskeletal disorders, highlighting the physical strain experienced in certain roles.

Mesothelioma Deaths
The long-term impact of asbestos exposure remains evident, with 2,257 deaths attributed to mesothelioma in 2022. This serves as a sobering reminder of the need for vigilance in managing legacy health risks.

Workplace Injuries
Workplace accidents also remain a significant concern:

  • 138 workers tragically lost their lives in work-related accidents.
  • 604,000 workers sustained an injury at work, as reported in the Labour Force Survey.
  • 61,663 injuries were formally reported under RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases, and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations).

Economic Impact
The financial cost of poor health and safety practices is staggering:

  • 33.7 million working days were lost due to work-related illness and workplace injuries.
  • The estimated cost of injuries and ill health from current working conditions is £21.6 billion (2022–2023).

What These Figures Mean for Employers and Employees

The statistics paint a clear picture: workplace health and safety is not just about compliance but about safeguarding lives, fostering healthy workplaces and protecting mental health.

Employers must take proactive steps to:

  • Address stress and mental health issues by fostering supportive workplace environments.
  • Reduce physical strain through ergonomic interventions and proper training.
  • Ensure comprehensive risk assessments and asbestos management plans.

For employees, awareness of health and safety policies and active participation in safety practices are key to creating safer and healthier workplaces.

Moving Forward

These figures are a wake-up call for all sectors to prioritise health and safety. By investing in preventative measures and fostering a culture of care, organisations can protect their people and strengthen their operations.

Let’s work together to make 2025 a safer, healthier year for every workplace in Great Britain.

Statistics source: Health and Safety Executive (HSE) November 2024.