New figures reveal rising deaths in UK construction

New figures published on 3rd July 2024 reveal that 51 deaths occurred in the UK construction industry during the 2023-24 period, an increase of four from the previous year.

According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), this figure means that construction accounted for over a third of the 138 workplace fatalities in the UK.

The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) has expressed significant concern over these numbers and is urging immediate action to reduce workplace deaths, a figure that has remained broadly consistent for over a decade.

Ruth Wilkinson, Head of Policy and Public Affairs at IOSH, commented: “There has been a rise in fatalities in construction, meaning the number of deaths in that industry is significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels.

There has also been a rise in the total number of workplace fatalities so it’s clear that lessons aren’t being learned and that much more still needs to be done to protect workers.”

Fatality rates across industries

While construction had the highest number of deaths, agriculture, forestry, and fishing saw the highest fatality rate per 100,000 workers.

In these sectors, there were 7.51 deaths per 100,000 workers compared to 2.43 in construction.

Overall, the total number of workplace fatalities increased by two from the previous year, with the figure fluctuating between 130 and 150 over the past decade.

The most common fatal accidents last year were falls from height, accounting for 50 of the 138 deaths.

Another 45 deaths were caused by workers being struck by a moving vehicle or object.

Notably, workers aged 60 or over represented 34 per cent of those killed, despite only comprising 11 per cent of the workforce.

Calls for improved safety measures

IOSH is advocating for businesses and the government to take more rigorous measures to improve occupational health and safety.

Wilkinson stated: “Whichever party forms the new Government must seek to protect and enhance health and safety standards, particularly across high-risk industries like construction.

“And businesses need to step up and ensure they have robust occupational health and safety management systems and control strategies in place to prevent accidents at work and reduce the chance of them happening.”

She emphasised the importance of a safe working environment: “Providing a safe and healthy working environment isn’t just an add-on for a business.

“It is now a fundamental principle and right at work, as recognised by the International Labour Organization.

“So, we need to see a joined-up approach to tackle harm at work to prevent more lives being needlessly lost.”

Mesothelioma deaths reported

On the same day, the HSE also released data on mesothelioma deaths in the UK, showing that 2,257 people died from the asbestos-related cancer in 2022, slightly down from 2,290 in 2021.

IOSH has been vocal about the need for more action to address asbestos-related diseases both in the UK and globally.