The latest HSE statistics on workplace injuries across Great Britain for 2024 to 2025 provide a clear and timely overview of current risks and emerging patterns. From the very beginning, the data around Workplace Injury Rates helps us understand not only where workers remain vulnerable, but also where prevention strategies have delivered progress. Importantly, these figures allow employers to benchmark performance and refocus their safety efforts where they matter most.
Fatal Injuries: Progress Has Slowed
The latest data shows that 124 workers tragically lost their lives due to work-related accidents during 2024/25. Each fatality represents a person, a family, and a workplace permanently affected by loss. Although fatal injury numbers have fallen significantly over the long term, the rate has remained broadly unchanged over the past decade. Therefore, while earlier improvements were substantial, recent progress has clearly stalled.
Non-Fatal Injuries: A Wider Impact
When we turn to non-fatal injuries, the scale of the issue becomes even more apparent. The Labour Force Survey estimates that 680,000 workers experienced a non-fatal workplace injury in the last year alone. In contrast, employers reported 59,219 injuries under RIDDOR. Consequently, this gap highlights the difference between self-reported experiences and formally reported incidents.
As a result of these injuries, the impact on productivity remains significant. The HSE estimates that 4.4 million working days were lost in 2024/25 due to non-fatal injuries. This time includes recovery periods, medical appointments, and the knock-on effects felt by colleagues who absorb additional workload.
Long-Term Trends in Workplace Injury Rates
Looking at longer-term trends, the picture becomes more nuanced. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, self-reported non-fatal injury rates were steadily declining. However, the most recent three years now mirror levels seen in 2018/19. Therefore, rather than continuing to improve, Workplace Injury Rates appear to have plateaued.
Meanwhile, employer-reported injuries under RIDDOR continue to show a clear downward trend. This improvement may reflect better safety controls, stronger leadership, and more mature reporting cultures across many sectors.
Most Common Causes of Workplace Injuries
The HSE also identifies the leading causes of reported workplace accidents. These include:
- Handling, lifting or carrying injuries – 30%
- Slips, trips, or falls on the same level – 17%
- Struck by a moving object – 10%
- Acts of violence – 10%
- Falls from height – 8%
Together, these categories account for the majority of reported incidents. Therefore, effective risk assessments, safe systems of work, and targeted training remain essential.
Injury Severity and Time Off Work
Finally, injury severity data shows that 82% of self-reported injuries resulted in up to seven days off work, while 18% led to absences longer than a week. Even so-called minor injuries can disrupt operations and place strain on workers.
Overall, these statistics reinforce the need for continuous improvement. By strengthening safety culture, improving awareness, and managing risks proactively, organisations can further reduce injuries and better protect workers across Great Britain.