The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has released its latest annual figures for work-related fatalities in the UK. The statistics reveal that 124 workers lost their lives in workplace incidents between April 2024 and March 2025, 14 less than the previous 12 month period. Within the manufacturing sector, eleven such deaths were recorded.
While any reduction in loss of life is a step in the right direction, these numbers are a sobering reminder that fatal accidents continue to occur, and behind every statistic lies a personal tragedy.
A further 92 people (members of the public) who were visiting or present in a workplace were also fatally injured during this period, serving a stark reminder that the responsibility of workplace safety doesn’t end at the workforce; it extends to all those who interact with the business.
Men continue to make up the overwhelming majority of those fatally injured at work, accounting for 95% of the total deaths. Notably, around 40% of those who died were aged over 60, this could potentially indicate a need for targeted safety measures for older workers who may face additional physical vulnerabilities.
The leading cause of fatal injuries was falling from height, resulting in over a quarter of all workplace fatalities – 35 deaths. Other common causes were:
- Struck by a moving object
- Trapped by something collapsing or overturning
- Struck by a moving vehicle
- Contact with moving machinery
HSE Chief Executive Sarah Albon offered a reminder of the ongoing importance of health and safety diligence: “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.”
Despite the continued falling trend in work related deaths, the findings should not be a cause for celebration amongst managers but one for reflection. With industries becoming more complex and workforce demographics shifting, safety strategies must evolve accordingly. While the fatality rate has followed a downward trend over the long term, it has plateaued in recent years.
It’s not enough to comply with legal obligations because creating a culture where safety is embedded into every decision, every shift, and every process is essential. Safety must be viewed not as a cost or a checkbox but as a core value that safeguards lives and sustains business.
HSE continues to offer practical, proportionate guidance, freely available to all organisations. For those seeking to go further, specialist advice and tailored support can make a meaningful difference. Please feel free to contact us about any Health and Safety concerns or queries you may have.
As we look ahead, let’s acknowledge the incredible progress made, but it’s important we never lose sight of the responsibility we carry. A single death is one too many.
