The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has recently published its 2022/23 report on workplace injuries, providing valuable insight into employers’ responsibility and employees’ safety.
The findings highlighted areas of high risk with more than twice as many work-related deaths in construction than in any other industry in the last financial year.
According to HSE statistics, 82% of fatal injuries in 2022/23 occurred in the following sectors: construction, agriculture, forestry and fishing, manufacturing, transportation and storage and wholesale, retail, motor vehicle repair; accommodation and food services.
The number of fatal injuries in construction in 2022/23 was 45, an increase of 16 from the previous year. When assessing the rate of fatal injuries per 100,000 workers, construction ranks as the third most dangerous industry, registering 2.1 deaths per 100,000 people.
The most common causes of fatal injuries were:
- falls from height.
- being struck by a moving object.
- being struck by a moving vehicle.
- being trapped by something collapsing or overturning.
- due to contact with moving machinery.
On a positive note, the rate of fatal worker injuries has shown a declining trend, although, in the years leading up to the COVID-19 pandemic, it remained relatively stable. The current rate aligns with pre-pandemic levels.
Can I make a claim if I had a construction accident?
Although typically, a building/construction site is full of physical labour, heavy machinery and things that can hurt you, a construction site shouldn’t be a dangerous place to work.
Sadly, health and safety practices aren’t always followed or equipment that is not fit for purpose is used. If you have been injured working on a construction site or a building site and it wasn’t your fault or have suffered any of the accidents mentioned above, then you may be able to make a compensation claim against them.
If your employers have been negligent, you will need certain proof regarding your accident. Our team of expert personal injury solicitors can walk you through each step. You may be able to claim compensation for your suffering, loss of your earnings, care, and travel costs and psychological distress, as well as ways to make your standard of living as best as possible for your recovery.
Scott Rees are one of the most highly experienced personal injury specialists in the UK, with over 25 years of experience in personal injury claims. Contact us today for a no-obligation free consultation to discuss making a claim.