The HSE published their annual statistics for 2023/24 last month. Key takeaways are:

• 1.7 million working people suffering from a work-related illness, of which:
   - 776,000 workers suffering from work-related stress, depression or anxiety
   - 543,000 workers suffering from a work-related musculoskeletal disorder
• 2,257 mesothelioma deaths due to past asbestos exposures (2022)
• 138 workers killed in work-related accidents
• 604,000 working people sustained an injury at work according to the Labour Force Survey
• 61,663 injuries to employees reported under RIDDOR
• 33.7 million working days lost due to work-related illness and workplace injury
• £21.6 billion estimated cost of injuries and ill health from current working conditions (2022/23)

The number of people suffering from mental ill health continues to account for almost half those off work with a work-related illness. This has prompted the HSE to focus on this area and commit to delivering “interventions that make a real difference”. The HSE is promoting its Management Standards Approach which establishes a framework to help employers tackle work-related stress and reduce its incidence and negative impact.  More information can be found on the HSE website at hse.gov.uk.

Asbestos continues to be a core area for the HSE. Asbestos exposure in Great Britain is still the single greatest cause of work-related deaths due to exposure decades ago. The HSE has been running an ‘Asbestos – Your Duty’ campaign to raise awareness and help keep people safe from exposure to asbestos.

RIDDOR notifications increased from 60,645 to 61,663 and fatal accidents sadly increased from 135 to 138, although it has been at or around this level for the last 10 years.

The HSE targets campaigns on high-risk sectors like agriculture and construction and specific dangers such as asbestos and stress at work. The high number of people suffering from work-related illness and the increase in reportable incidents will inevitably reinvigorate the HSE’s inspection, investigation and enforcement arms.

Keoghs national crime and regulatory team deals with all aspects of regulatory investigations and prosecutions arising from incidents in the workplace, on the road or in public places. We are on hand to support, train and advise organisations and individuals. Please do not hesitate to get in touch if you would like to discuss this further.

For more information, please contact Chris Newton - Partner or Gemma Rush - Associate