The latest annual fatality statistics from the UK’s Health & Safety Executive (HSE) show that 124 workers were killed in work-related incidents in Great Britain from April 2024 to March 2025, fourteen fewer than in the previous 12-month period
This compares to 223 twenty years ago (2004/05) and 495 in 1981.
The figures relate to work-related accidents and do not include deaths arising from occupational diseases or diseases arising from certain occupational exposures.
The industries accounting for the highest number of deaths were construction (35) and agriculture, forestry and fishing (23). Agriculture, forestry and fishing continues to have the highest rate of fatal injury per 100,000 workers, followed by waste and recycling.
The most common cause of fatal injuries continues to be falls from a height (35), representing over a quarter of worker deaths in 2024/25 and reflecting the global trend.
A further 92 people who were not at work were killed in work-related incidents in 2024/25, ie members of the public who were in a workplace but were not working themselves.
HSE’s chief executive Sarah Albon said, “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. We are encouraged by the long-term trend but urge against complacency on workplace safety."
