Construction fatalities increased in 2010
Deaths and fatalities in UK workplaces have increased over the last 12 months, research shows.
In 2010 to 2011, the number of people that died in the workplace increased to 171 compared 147 in 2009-2010, reversing a long-term decline.
The construction industry saw a particularly high increase in workplace deaths, with a 20% rise from 40 to 50. Additionally the manufacturing sector saw an increase from 24 to 27, and service sector deaths rose from 42 to 47.
Philip White, Health and Safety Executive (HSE) construction chief claims the increase in fatalities is extremely disappointing. Figures for a single year however should not be viewed in isolation.
According to Brendan Barber, general secretary of the Trades Union Congress:
“The responsibility for the increase in deaths this year must be placed at the door of negligent employers, but more needs to be done to ensure that all employers protect their workers from harm.”
“The Government’s recent decision to reduce workplace inspections and the budget cuts for both the HSE and local authorities make it more far less likely that problems will be identified before something goes wrong.”
He continued to explain that if we are going to stop this year’s increase becoming a long-term trend we need more inspections in the workplace.
The British Safety Council has expressed concern at this year’s surge in fatalities. Health and safety has been a focal topic for decades and the disappointing figures emphasises the need to ensure it’s in order.
Julie Nerney, chief executive of the British Safety Council said:
“We pride ourselves on the strength of our health and safety regulatory framework, and yet avoidable deaths are still occurring.”
“The British Safety Council has a significantly large number of members in construction and manufacturing. We will be re-doubling efforts to work with them to build competence and spread good practice to those organisations in those sectors struggling to be compliant.”
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