Health and Safety at Work Act Celebrates 50 Years: Calls for Enhanced Support


The Health and Safety at Work Act of 1974 was introduced following a period marked by numerous industrial accidents. One of the most tragic incidents during this time was the Aberfan mining disaster in 1966, which claimed the lives of 116 children and 28 adults 

Today, 31 July, marks the 50th anniversary of the Health and Safety at Work Act (HSWA), a landmark piece of legislation that introduced mandatory health and safety measures across UK workplaces. In recognition of this milestone, the Trades Union Congress (TUC) is urging the new government to build on the Act’s successes. 

The HSWA, which received Royal Assent in July 1974, established crucial health and safety standards for the first time. The TUC acknowledges the significant progress made in saving lives since the Act’s introduction but emphasises the need for increased government funding to further prevent work-related deaths. Over the past decade, Britain has experienced an average of more than 100 work-related deaths annually. 

The TUC’s key recommendations include: 

  • Restoring “adequate funding” to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). 
  • Accelerating the removal of asbestos from all workplaces. 
  • Safeguarding the role of trade union health and safety representatives. 
  • Allowing unions to enter and organise workplaces lacking union representation. 
  • Fostering a collaborative approach to health and safety that benefits both employers and employees. 

TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak remarked, “The Act mandated that every employer protect their staff’s health and safety, saving thousands of lives over the years. It demonstrates the value of government intervention in safeguarding working people.” 

Nowak criticised the decline in workplace inspections and prosecutions due to budget cuts, noting that over 100 people died from work-related injuries last year. He called for renewed funding and innovative approaches to improve workplace safety, emphasising that every worker deserves a safe work environment. 

The HSWA was preceded by the Robens Report of 1972, which advocated for the creation of a health and safety authority—now known as the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). According to TUC estimates, the legislation has contributed to approximately 14,000 fewer fatal work injuries since its enactment. 

HSE Chief Executive Sarah Albon stated, “The HSWA, enacted on 31 July 1974, led to the establishment of the HSE on 1 January 1975. The Act revolutionised workplace safety in Great Britain, making it one of the safest places in the world to work. The principles of this groundbreaking legislation remain central to our efforts to ensure safety and health in the workplace.” 

The TUC and HSE are committed to continuing the legacy of the HSWA, advocating for ongoing improvements in workplace health and safety standards.