Understanding RIDDOR Injury Statistics
Workplace safety is a critical issue, and tracking injury trends plays a key role in preventing future incidents. RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases, and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations) requires employers to report serious workplace incidents to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). These reports help identify risks, enforce safety regulations, and develop strategies to reduce accidents.
What Does RIDDOR Require Employers to Report?
RIDDOR covers various workplace incidents that must be reported. These include:
- Fatal injuries – Any work-related death must be reported immediately.
- Serious injuries – Fractures, amputations, severe burns, and other major injuries.
- Extended absences – Any injury that prevents an employee from working for seven or more days.
- Dangerous occurrences – Near-miss events that could have caused significant harm.
- Work-related illnesses – Occupational diseases such as asbestos-related conditions and vibration injuries.
Latest RIDDOR Injury Statistics (2023-2024)
The most recent HSE report provides valuable insights into workplace injury trends. Here are the key findings:
- 61,663 non-fatal injuries were reported under RIDDOR between April 2023 and March 2024.
- The total number of injuries remains lower than pre-pandemic levels from 2018/19.
- Self-reported data from the Labour Force Survey estimated 604,000 workplace injuries during the same period.
What Are the Leading Causes of Workplace Injuries?
Several types of incidents continue to account for the majority of reported injuries. The five most common causes include:
- Slips, trips, and falls (31%) – The leading cause of workplace injuries, often due to wet floors, uneven surfaces, or poor lighting.
- Handling, lifting, or carrying (17%) – Strains and sprains caused by improper lifting techniques or repetitive movements.
- Being struck by an object (10%) – A common hazard in warehouses, construction sites, and manufacturing facilities.
- Acts of violence (9%) – An increasing issue, particularly in customer-facing roles such as retail and healthcare.
- Falls from height (8%) – A major risk in construction, roofing, and scaffolding work.
Fatal Workplace Injuries
In addition to non-fatal injuries, RIDDOR recorded 138 fatal workplace injuries in 2023/24. These tragic events emphasize the urgent need for improved safety protocols and stricter compliance with workplace safety laws.
Why Tracking RIDDOR Injury Statistics Matters
Regularly monitoring RIDDOR Injury Statistics is essential for creating safer workplaces. These reports allow businesses and safety regulators to:
- Identify high-risk industries and job roles.
- Develop targeted safety programs.
- Improve training and awareness for employees.
- Ensure legal compliance and reduce liability.
How Employers Can Reduce Workplace Injuries
To lower the risk of injuries and create a safer environment, employers should:
- Provide regular safety training and refreshers for employees.
- Ensure proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Conduct frequent workplace inspections and risk assessments.
- Encourage employees to report hazards immediately.
Final Thoughts
Understanding and analysing RIDDOR Injury Statistics is crucial for preventing workplace injuries. While injury rates have declined in recent years, hazards still exist in many industries. By taking proactive steps, businesses can create safer environments, reduce accident rates, and ensure employees stay protected. Keeping workplaces safe benefits everyone—from workers and employers to entire industries and the economy.