Workplace fatality figures at historical low

The number of manufacturing fatalities is 27% lower than the previous year, when 33 workers died – but HSE is warning that higher injury rates could accompany industry's recovery from the economic crisis. "As the economy recovers from recession, it's imperative that the industry makes safety a top priority, as we know from evidence of previous recoveries that it generally sees an increase in the rate and number of workers losing their lives," says Geoff Cox, HSE's head of manufacturing. The rate of fatal injuries in the sector was 0.9 deaths per 100,000 workers, compared to an average rate of 1.2 per 100,000 for the previous five years. Manufacturers' organisation EEF is encouraged by the announcement that workplace fatalities are at a historical low. Steve Pointer, head of health and Safety Policy, says: "Many directors, managers, employee representatives and health and safety advisors throughout manufacturing deserve credit for their sustained hard work in difficult economic times. "These figures are welcome but there is no room for complacency. As the industry continues to recover from recession, good, practical management of risk is even more important. We know from experience that accident rates can increase during upturns as businesses bring in new employees and new processes. EEF will continue to work closely with HSE, providing practical support for manufacturers." Across all sectors and regions there were 151 workplace deaths in 2009/10, and 178 in 2008/09. Further information on workplace statistics can be found at www.hse.gov.uk/statistics.