HSE Releases Latest Statistics on Work-Related Fatalities – April 2024 to March 2025

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has published its annual statistics on work-related fatal injuries in Great Britain for the period April 2024 to March 2025. The latest data reflects a continuation of a long-term downward trend in workplace fatalities, although key sectors and risks remain a significant concern.

Overall Decline in Fatalities

In 2024/25, a total of 124 workers lost their lives due to workplace injuries, a decrease from 138 in the previous year. This figure is consistent with pre-pandemic levels and marks a substantial reduction compared to 20 years ago, when 223 fatal injuries were recorded in 2004/05.

Construction Sector: Most Fatalities Despite Improvement

The construction industry once again recorded the highest number of fatalities, with 35 deaths reported. While this represents a notable improvement from the 51 fatalities in 2023/24, construction remains the sector with the greatest number of deaths, accounting for 28% of the national total.

Leading Causes of Fatal Injuries

The primary causes of workplace deaths remain broadly consistent with previous years:

• Falls from height: 35 fatalities (a significant reduction from 50 the previous year)

• Struck by a moving object: 18 fatalities (slightly down from 20)

• Trapped by something collapsing or overturning: 17 fatalities (an increase from 15)

Falls from height remain the most frequent cause, responsible for over one-quarter of all fatal injuries.

Fatalities Among the Public

There were 92 work-related fatalities involving members of the public in 2024/25, up from 87 in the previous year. These incidents typically involve people not employed at the site, such as visitors or bystanders affected by workplace activities.

High Risk in Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing

While construction leads in absolute numbers, the agriculture, forestry, and fishing sector recorded the highest fatal injury rate per 100,000 workers. In 2024/25, this rate stood at 8.01 – significantly above the all-industry average.

Disproportionate Impact on Older and Self-Employed Workers

Around 40% of fatal injuries occurred among workers aged 60 and above, even though they make up only 12% of the workforce. Additionally, nearly 40% (49 out of 124) of the fatalities involved self-employed individuals, who constitute approximately 15% of the national workforce.

HSE’s Response

“Great Britain is one of the safest places in the world to work, but we must remember each of these deaths represents a tragedy for families, friends and communities. Despite the stability in numbers, we cannot accept that fatal accidents are an inevitable part of working life.”

The HSE encourages all employers and duty holders to consult the latest guidance, invest in safety and training, and take proactive steps to manage risks.

Health & Safety Services – Craven Consultancy Services