Is Your Employer Complying with Health and Safety?

Employers have important legal obligations when it comes to health and safety in the workplace, but how do many businesses currently stack up? The latest Health and Safety statistics for 2021/2022 reveal both ongoing challenges and critical areas for improvement.

Overview of Key Figures

• 8 million working people suffering from a work-related illness, including:
  • 914,000 workers with work-related stress, depression or anxiety
  • 477,000 workers with work-related musculoskeletal disorders
  • 123,000 workers believing they contracted COVID-19 at work
• 2,544 mesothelioma deaths due to past asbestos exposures (2020)
• 123 workers killed in work-related accidents
• 565,000 working people sustained an injury at work (Labour Force Survey)
• 61,713 injuries reported under RIDDOR
• 8 million working days lost due to work-related illness and injury
• £18.8 billion estimated cost of injuries and ill health from current working conditions (2019/20)

Implications for Employers and the Economy

The latest data shows that there is still a considerable number of injuries, deaths and sickness associated with working conditions. The impact on the individuals involved can be considerable, but so can the wider effect on the economy and productivity.

To ensure compliance with your legal obligations and to protect both employees and business performance, it’s essential to review and reinforce your health and safety regulations. For guidance on assessing your current practices, read our article on Is Your Employer Complying with Health and Safety Regulations?

Next Steps

Consider the following actions:

• Conduct a comprehensive risk assessment and document findings.
• Review and update all health and safety policies annually.
• Provide regular training and support for employees at all levels.
• Monitor and report incidents under RIDDOR promptly.
• Engage with health and safety experts for ongoing compliance advice.