Concerning news from HSE on increased construction site fatalities.
HSE highlights “significant” rise in construction deaths Latest figures from the Health and Safety Executive reveal that 51 construction workers died following accidents during the year to March 31 2024. The figure is an increase on the previous year’s total of 47 and the five-year average for fatal injuries in the sector which stands at 42. Further analysis is required on these statistics - combined with recent news that HSE site height safety audits have reduced, as falls from height usually represents the major cause of death and serious injury in site, there should be concern about these new statistics. According to Construction Inquirer, the HSE said: “While the number of fatalities fluctuates year-on-year, the average number of worker deaths in construction in the latest two years is statistically significantly higher than the pre-pandemic period.” Construction again accounted for the largest number of fatal accidents across all industries with the total death toll standing at 138 during the year.