Rise in workplace fatality rate

In the past year, the country’s workplace fatality rate has increased by 24, according to the latest figures. In the year to March 2011, 171 workplace deaths were recorded by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). This compares to 147 during the same period of the previous year. Despite these statistics, the watchdog added that the number of major workplace injuries has fallen, dropping from 26,268 in 2009/10 to around 24,700. Amputations, fractures and burns are among the injuries which fall into this category. Meanwhile, the number of injuries deemed severe enough to cause an absence of at least four days dropped to 90,653. Commenting on the research, Malcolm Underhill, personal injury specialist at IBB Solicitors, said:

“The latest statistics confirm that Britain continues to have the lowest rate of fatal occupational injuries in Europe as well as one of the lowest levels of work-related ill health. This is good news but there is still room for improvement in some sectors where the number of accidents appear disproportionately high, such as construction and agriculture. Perhaps the only way to improve health and safety in these industries is for the HSE to use the full force of their enforcement powers.”

IBB Solicitors has built a reputation for quality of service in pursuing compensation in cases involving accident, illness or death, including accidents at work. If you would like advice on personal injury issues, contact a member of IBB’s Personal Injury team: call us on 08456 381381 or email PI@ibblaw.co.uk.