Unite, the UK’ leading union, is marking International Workers’ Memorial Day (today) with a demand for more action at all levels to reduce workplace deaths.

High number of deaths

The latest figures revealed that in 2023/24 there were a total of 138 workers killed in fatal accidents at work. The highest number of deaths was in the construction sector where 51 workers lost their lives. The most common form of fatal accident was fall from heights which made up 36 per cent of the total.

In addition to fatal accidents, thousands more workers and retired workers lost their lives because of developing industrial diseases.

Remembering the dead

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Today, as we remember all workers who have died at work, we also remember the families whose loved ones went out to work and never came home. 

“One death is far too many. Yet every year of thousands of people die unnecessarily due to workplace accidents and industrial diseases. This is a hidden epidemic which is being ignored by society.

“It is the fundamental role of unions to keep workers safe and to ensure employers and government do the same. The safety and wellbeing of workers is never optional and must always be the highest priority in the workplace.

“It is imperative the government fully funds the HSE and other enforcement bodies to ensure that employers can’t cut corners on safety.”

HSE funding squeeze

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE), which is the body primarily responsible for workers’ safety, has seen cuts in real terms of 45 per cent in its budget since 2010, due to government austerity measures.

The squeeze on finances has resulted in a significant reduction in enforcement and inspection activity. For instance proactive inspections in construction, which saw a four year high in deaths, have declined by a third in a decade.

ENDS

Notes to editors

For media enquiries ONLY please contact Unite senior communications advisor Barckley Sumner on 07802 329235.

Email: barckley.sumner@unitetheunion.org

Twitter: @unitetheunion Facebook: unitetheunion1 Instagram: unitetheunion Web: unitetheunion.org

Unite is the UK and Ireland’s leading union fighting to protect and advance jobs, pay and conditions for members working across all sectors of the economy. The general secretary is Sharon Graham. 

 

ENDS