Laura Connor, Partner
The latest statistics published by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) are a sobering reminder of the real human cost of workplace incidents. From April 2024 to March 2025, 124 workers tragically lost their lives in work-related incidents across Great Britain, with an additional 92 members of the public killed in workplace-related environments.
While the figures show a slight decrease from the previous year and continue to reflect a downward trend over the past two decades, the reality remains simple: these numbers are not just data points, they represent lives lost, families grieving, and communities affected. Every death is a preventable tragedy that should never be accepted as just part of the job.
Too often, these incidents stem from failures that could have been avoided with proper risk assessment, adequate training, and a genuine commitment to health and safety. Sadly, we continue to see cases where cost-cutting, complacency, or poor workplace cultures lead to devastating outcomes.
As a leading personal injury law firm in Scotland, Thompsons Solicitors is committed to ensuring that the rights of workers and their families are protected when health and safety failings have devastating consequences. Laura Connor, Partner and Head of our Life Impact Team, responded to the HSE’s report:
“Behind every statistic is a family shattered by loss. We welcome improvements in long-term safety trends, but the figures still represent an unacceptable toll. No one should leave for work and not come home. Our work at Thompsons is driven by the need to ensure justice and accountability for those affected by fatal workplace incidents.” – Laura Connor, Partner, Thompsons Solicitors
High-Risk Sectors and Leading Causes
The construction industry once again recorded the highest number of fatalities, with 35 deaths, followed closely by agriculture, forestry, and fishing at 23. These sectors have consistently been among the most hazardous, with agriculture continuing to have the highest fatality rate per 100,000 workers.
The most common cause of fatal injuries remains falls from height, accounting for over a quarter of all deaths in 2024/25 (35 fatalities). These are incidents that are preventable with proper safety procedures and oversight.
At Thompsons, we have decades of experience representing clients and families affected, ensuring they receive the recognition and compensation they deserve. We work closely with bereaved families to guide them through the legal process with compassion, expertise, and dedication.
Accountability and Justice
While the UK is statistically one of the safest places in the world to work, we echo the words of HSE Chief Executive Sarah Albon: we must never accept fatal accidents as inevitable. We urge employers, regulators, and policymakers to prioritise investment in prevention, training, and compliance.
At Thompsons Solicitors, our dedicated teams fight tirelessly on behalf of workers and bereaved families. We understand the legal complexities, but more importantly, we understand the emotional impact.
If you or someone you know has been affected by a fatal workplace incident or a serious industrial disease, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help.
You can read the HSE’s full report on work-related fatalities here. To learn more about how we support families affected by fatal workplace incidents, visit our Serious & Fatal Injuries page.
