Construction fatalities rise despite overall decline in UK workplace deaths

The number of fatal injuries in Great Britain’s workplaces has fallen, but the construction sector continues to report the highest number of deaths, according to the latest figures from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

Between April 2024 and March 2025, 124 workers across all industries lost their lives in work-related incidents – down from 138 the previous year. However, construction accounted for 35 of these deaths, maintaining its position as the most fatal sector in the UK.

All 35 construction fatalities were the result of falls from height, highlighting the persistent dangers associated with this type of work. Falls from height were the leading cause of workplace deaths across all industries, accounting for over a quarter of all cases.

Despite advancements in safety technology and awareness, the construction industry’s fatal injury rate has increased by nearly 79% since 2018/19. The sector’s figures stand in stark contrast to other high-risk industries: agriculture, forestry and fishing reported 23 deaths, while manufacturing recorded 11.

The data also shows that older workers are disproportionately affected. Workers aged 60 and over, who make up only around 11% of the workforce, accounted for a third of all fatalities last year. In construction, this trend raises concerns about how age-related risks are managed on-site.

Construction engineers and site managers are being urged to reassess their approach to fall prevention. Industry recommendations include strengthening edge protection systems, improving equipment inspections, and expanding the use of digital safety tools such as wearable sensors and geofencing alerts.

There are also calls for enhanced support and supervision for older workers, including regular health checks, tailored training, and adjustments to tasks that reduce physical strain.

"Every fatality is a tragedy. Behind these statistics are real people – families and colleagues left devastated," the HSE said in a statement. "Employers, engineers, and contractors must redouble their efforts to ensure every worker goes home safely at the end of the day."

The HSE will release its full annual report on work-related injuries and ill health later this year, offering a more comprehensive overview.