The HSE has released its annual statistics on the causes of work related deaths in Great Britain in 2023/24. Sadly 138 people lost their lives in accidents at work. According to the “Work-related fatal injuries in Great Britain 2024” report details that the highest proportion (36%) of those deaths resulted from falls from height. This is an increase on previous years.
Being struck by a moving vehicle or object was the next highest reason for deaths. So what steps could be taken by employers to reduce the number of accidents at work further?
Falls from height
Working at height is defined as performing any work at height but can also inclusive work in any place at or below ground level. These tasks are generally governed by the Work at Height Regulations 2005. The Regulations require every employer and those in control of any work at height activity must appropriately plan, organise and supervise such activities. They must properly risk assess the task. The risk assessment should consider every aspect of the task and consider in detail every risk to the individual who will be performing the role. Where work at height is to take place outdoors the employer must check that weather conditions are suitable and do not post a risk to the health and safety of their employees or those working under their control. They must also make sure that any person assigned to work at height has the necessary training and skills to do so.
Struck By a Moving Object
As with work at height activities, the main precaution that can be taken to prevent collisions between employees and vehicles or objects is ensuring appropriate risk assessments are undertaken regularly, measures to reduce risk implemented and communicated to staff. It is surprisingly common to discover there was a risk assessment done but the recommendations were not implemented or not communicated. Measures that help reduce these types of accident depend on the type of workplace but can include division of the workplace to ensure moving objects such as vehicles are kept away from workers. In the case of falling objects then training on how to stack goods safely so they don’t fall on others and ensuring equipment is regularly maintained and replaced should be considered.
No-one should ever go to work and not come home. In my view these are all avoidable accidents. If all employers take their responsibilities for health and safety seriously and do not just pay lip service to it, the current level of accidents can be reduced further.
If you or a loved one have suffered an injury as a result of an accident at work in Scotland, please contact Stephanie Watson on 0131 297 5988 or swatson@thorntons-law.co.uk. Alternatively, contact the Personal Injury Team on 0800 731 8434 who will be pleased to assist further or click here for further information.
