From the HSE’s report: rate of fatal work injuries over the years.

The Health and Safety Executive has published a report on occupational safety statistics in the United Kingdom during the 2012/13 year. The HSE’s Annual Statistics Report provides comprehensive insight into health and safety at workplacesacross the country, highlighting the need for more occupational training for workers in the UK.

Last year, 148 workers were killed on the job, which works out to a rate of 0.5 fatalities per 100,000 workers. This marks a small decline from the rate of 0.6 fatalities per 100,000 workers in 2011/12. The construction industry had the highest number of fatalities with 39. Agriculture and waste were not far behind with 29 and 10, respectively.

The statistics show that 78 222 employees were injured, at a rate of 311.6 per 100,000 workers. 19 707 were major injuries, the most common of which were slips and trips (43%) and falling from heights (13%). There were 58 515 over-7-day injuries, most of which were caused by handling and lifting (27%).

706 cases were prosecuted for health and safety breaches in the United Kingdom. 574 of these cases took place in England and Wales, marking a 6% increase from the previous year. 27 cases took place in Scotland, a 20% decline on the year prior.

It is estimated that occupational injuries and workplace-related illnesses cost the UK £13.8 billion annually. To better protect workers and reduce the cost to society, it is important for employers to ensure that their workers are trained to navigate health and safety hazards that are specific to their jobs.

British Safety Services offers a wide range of health and safety training that will keep you safe at work. For more information, browse our selection of Occupational Safety Training Courses.