Latest Figures on Ill health and Injuries presents a mixed picture

The figures published today (November 1) by the Health and Safety Commission provide good and bad news for industry in general and the construction industry in particular.

Of most concern is the rise in workplace ill–health that has increased by 10 per cent in 12 months with 2.2 million workers now suffering such problems.

In the construction industry the number of major injuries increased this year (3,711) but the overall rate per 100,000 workers decreased (295.4), due to an increase in the numbers working in the sector.

The overall number of construction injuries requiring over three days off work, slightly fell last year (a total of 7,108). The largest cause of such injuries resulted from handling, lifting and carrying. This accounted for 38 per cent of injuries, the same total as last year, showing no improvement on the previous year.

Although the accident rates are to be welcomed there remains a great concern about under reporting of serious injuries. Research undertaken for the HSE by Liverpool University has previously shown that only 30 per cent of reportable injuries of employees were reported. The figure for the self-employed showed that just 13 per cent of reportable injuries were reported.

Also of great concern for UCATT is the continued rise in deaths caused by mesothelioma. In 2005 (the last year for which records were available) 2,037 people died of the disease. A 3.45 per cent increase on the previous year. Deaths are expected to continue to rise for at least a further decade.

Alan Ritchie, general secretary of UCATT, said: “Although limited progress has been made on injuries at work the overall figures are far too high. Far greater efforts need to be made by everyone involved in industry to stop people being killed or maimed at work”

Construction is the most dangerous industry in Britain. In 2006/7 77 workers were killed in the industry. Since April 2007, 40 construction workers have lost their lives.