According to figures released by the Health and Safety Executive, 1.7 million workers have suffered from work-related illnesses in the last year (2023-24).
The HSE’s annual statistics show a number that is similar to the HSE’s 1.8 million for 2022-23. This number represents an estimated loss of 33.7 million days due to self-reported injuries or ill-health at work.
The HSE reported that the self-reported rate of work-related illnesses is also broadly similar to last year’s, though it remains higher than 2018/19 before the pandemic.
In 2023-24, there will be 776,000 reported cases of stress, anxiety or depression.
The executive said that the current rate of self reported work-related anxiety, depression, or stress is higher than pre-pandemic levels, but it has decreased since 2022-23.
Total of 543,000 workers suffered from a work related musculoskeletal disorders and 604,000 people were injured at work. RIDDOR reported 61,663 workplace injuries.
HSE estimates that the annual cost of new cases of workplace illness and injury will be PS21.6bn in 2022/23. This is PS1.6bn lower than 2021/22.
In 2023-24, 138 workers died in accidents at work. 604,000 workers suffered a non-fatal workplace injury during that time.
The HSE also said that a total of 2,257 deaths due to mesothelioma caused by past asbestos exposures will be reported in 2022.
Sarah Albon, the chief executive of HSE, said that this year marks 50 years since legislation establishing HSE was passed. In that time, many things have been accomplished. For example, the number of fatal workplace injuries has dropped by 85%.
She added, “Today Great Britain is among the safest countries in the world for workers, but these statistics remind us that we can still improve, and remain committed to making sure people are safe and healthy, wherever they work.”
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