31 October 2015

Figures released by the Health and Safety executive (HSE) show the number of workplace deaths increased to 142 in 2014/2015. 611,000 injuries occurred at work over the same period, according to the Labour Force Survey.

TUC general secretary, Frances O’Grady said: “This is a very worrying trend and highlights once again the folly of the government’s Trade Union Bill. Unions play a crucial role in keeping people safe at work but these new reforms will make it much harder for unions to work with employers to identify potential hazards. And allowing untrained temporary workers to cover for experienced staff during strikes could lead to even more accidents at work and put public health at risk.

“Today’s worrying figures on workplace deaths show why we need stronger unions not weaker ones. After decades of progress, the number of people dying at work every year is now on the up again. This government’s cavalier attitude to health and safety is going to put even more people at risk of serious injury.

“The small fall in people taking sickness absence because of a work-related illness or injury is welcome, but may be more down to pressure on workers from employers who are increasingly linking time off with disciplinary processes.

“From the huge levels of musculoskeletal disorders such as back pain and occupational stress, it’s clear that the message on preventing injury and disease is still not getting through. Instead of attacking unions, ministers should be addressing workers’ safety through strong regulation and proper enforcement.”