Top three most hazardous UK industries named

The latest UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE) figures for 2018/2019 reveals that the most dangerous industries to work in are agriculture, waste and recycling, and construction.

During 2018/2019, 32 agricultural workers have died. With 9.21 deaths per 100,000 workers, agriculture boasts the unenviable record of the highest death rate of all UK industries.

The period also saw 30 construction workers died, although this is the lowest number of fatalities on record for the sector. Work-related injuries are estimated to cost construction businesses over £1bn a year.

Health and safety practices are constantly being improved to provide greater protection for workers in all industries. The HSE enforces health and safety laws in the UK and prosecutes businesses that do not comply with safety regulations.

To improve health and safety, the construction industry trade association IPAF and equipment manufacturers have held a series of events for construction workers to educate the workforce and campaign for better safety awareness. The IPAF is especially concerned about falls from heights, which account for nearly half of all construction workers’ deaths.

PPE (personal protective equipment) manufacturers are improving their equipment to provide more protection. For example, smart gadgets can be embedded in protective workwear to warn workers if they are entering hazardous locations.

Though more steps can be taken to prevent injuries and deaths, the UK remains one of the safest places to work. The workplace death figures are among the lowest in the European Union and other large economies.