Recent HSE statistics on non-fatal injuries to workers
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has released further detail on its provisional statistics for 2023/24. Charles Mather, solicitor, and Terry Griffin, partner, from the regulatory and compliance team examine the non-fatal injury statistics to workers.
Following our article on the HSE’s provisional annual injury statistics report for 2023/24 regarding work-related fatalities in the UK, the release of the underlying provisional statistics adds some clarity to the headline figures.
To reach the non-fatal injury average rate figures amongst workers (i.e. employees and the self-employed), the HSE aggregates the rate of specified injuries with the rate of injuries resulting in immediate incapacitation for more than seven consecutive days, as reported to the HSE by responsible persons under RIDDOR – see our previous blog on RIDDOR for more details.
In relation to non-fatal injuries, the average UK rate across all industries per 100,000 workers was 217. The average rate in the North West was 229 against an average rate of 214 in England. Broken down by age bracket, the rate amongst 25-34 years olds was 117, climbing to 220 amongst 55-64 year olds.
Industry statistics
Broken down by industry, the rate amongst construction workers was 306, and in relation to those working in agriculture, forestry and fishing, the rate was 425.
Bearing in mind that the statistics attribute the 23 fatalities within the agriculture, fishing and forestry industry solely to farming and hunting, it is interesting that of the constituent rates within agriculture, forestry and fishing, the rate of non-fatal injury in connection with forestry and logging was higher than that within farming and hunting, at 454 and 411 respectively.
The industry with the highest rate of non-fatal reported injuries, at 951, was household employers of domestic personnel.
Stay compliant
Whilst fatal injuries remain most prevalent in the agricultural sector, the statistics illustrate that non-fatal injuries can and do occur in all kinds of workplaces, with slips, trips and falls, and injuries sustained while handling, lifting or carrying, accounting for 48% of the total reported non-fatal injuries across all industries in 2023/24.
It is inevitable that accidents and injuries will occur from time to time, but businesses and responsible persons should be aware of their obligations to avoid action being taken by the HSE.
If you or your business are investigated by the HSE following an injury, or you would like more general advice on your health and safety obligations, Harrison Drury’s regulatory team are here to help. Please get in touch with our team on 01772 258 321.