Work-related fatalities fall but risks remain

Work-related fatalities fall slightly but remain a serious concern, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has reported.

The HSE has published its latest annual figures on work-related deaths in Great Britain, covering April 2024 to March 2025.

The report shows 124 workers died due to workplace incidents, down from 138 the previous year, marking a small improvement but underlining ongoing risks.

Here is some of the key information from the report:

Leading causes of fatalities

• falls from height caused 35 deaths;
• struck by moving vehicles or objects was another major cause.

High-risk industries

• construction had 35 fatalities;
• agriculture, forestry, and fishing accounted for 23 deaths, with the highest fatal injury rate;
• waste and recycling sectors also showed elevated risks.

Public safety

92 members of the public died in work-related incidents.

Occupational diseases

2,218 deaths from mesothelioma linked to asbestos exposure were reported in 2023.

HSE response

While the slight drop in deaths is positive, the HSE stresses the need for ongoing focus on workplace safety.

Chief Executive Sarah Albon said every death is a tragedy and urged vigilance. The HSE offers free guidance to help prevent falls.

For more information, visit the HSE website or view the report.