Two areas in North Yorkshire have reported more than double the national rate of serious workplace injuries, as highlighted during this Injury Awareness Week (24-28 June). According to recent figures, Ryedale and Selby are among the most affected, with Ryedale witnessing 481 injuries per 100,000 workers and Selby seeing 435. This is significantly higher than the national average of 212 injured workers per 100,000 in England.
Mike Benner, Chief Executive of the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL), emphasizes the gravity of these numbers, noting that they pertain to severe injuries at work such as burns, fractures, and loss of consciousness. These incidents, which incapacitate workers for seven days or more, must be reported to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). However, Benner warns that the actual number of workplace injuries is likely higher, as not all incidents meet the reporting criteria.
Employers’ Legal Responsibilities
Benner highlights the critical role employers play in preventing workplace injuries. “Employers have a duty under the law to ensure their staff are not injured needlessly. This includes identifying things which might cause harm, and making sure workers have the proper equipment and training to do their jobs,” he stated. He also reminded employees of their responsibility to cooperate with their employers, follow training protocols, and exercise reasonable care.
The HSE’s role in enforcing these standards is crucial, but compliance from employers is equally important. “If firms comply with their responsibilities under the law, it considerably reduces the risk of workers being needlessly harmed and, in turn, companies being found to be negligent,” Benner added.
The Impact of Workplace Injuries
The impact of workplace injuries extends beyond the immediate physical harm. “The latest figures show that 561,000 people were injured at work in a year in the UK. An estimated 35.2 million working days were lost due to work-related injury and ill-health, which costs the economy £20.7 billion each year,” Benner explained. The sectors most affected include agriculture, forestry, and fishing, construction, accommodation and food services, and wholesale/retail trade, including motor vehicle repair, as reported by the Office of National Statistics (ONS) Labour Force Survey.
50 Years of Health and Safety Regulations
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act, a landmark legislation that has significantly improved workplace health and safety in the UK. Despite this progress, Benner acknowledges that there is still much work to be done. “Going to work in the UK has got safer in that time, but too many people still endure the terrible pain, financial pressures, and the impact on personal and family life which come with a workplace injury,” he stated.
The Workers Union Says…
“As we observe Injury Awareness Week, the message is clear: workplace injuries are preventable, and both employers and employees must take proactive steps to ensure safety. By adhering to legal responsibilities and fostering a culture of safety, we can reduce the incidence of workplace injuries and their devastating consequences. Solicitors may wish to apply to our panel here”
