A review of the 2025/26 HSE workplace fatality statistics
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has released its latest workplace fatality statistics for 2025/2026, providing an important insight into the risks faced by workers across Great Britain.
Every year the HSE publishes a set of statistics relating to work-related fatalities from accidents.
The latest figures show that Great Britain remains one of the safest places in the world to work. However, workplace fatalities remain a significant concern, reinforcing the importance of effective health and safety management across all sectors.
Workplace fatalities fall, but risks remain
The analysis shows that 126 workers lost their lives in work-related accidents across Great Britain in 2025/2026. Excluding the years affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, this is provisionally the lowest annual figure recorded.
Construction once again recorded the highest number of fatalities, with 25 deaths. Agriculture, forestry and fishing followed, reporting 22 fatalities – sectors historically associated with higher risk due to the nature of their work.
There were also 2,146 mesothelioma deaths recorded in 2024 because of previous exposure to asbestos – highlighting the continuing impact of occupational diseases. While a reduction overall is shown, the figures demonstrate the ongoing need for businesses to identify risks and implement preventative measures.
Older workers face increased risks
Workers aged 60 and over accounted for around a third of all workplace fatalities (40 deaths), despite representing just 12% of the workforce.
This highlights the importance of businesses paying particular attention to older workers and others who may be more vulnerable, particularly where tasks involve physically demanding activities.
Employers should ensure that risk assessments consider individual capabilities and make appropriate adjustments where necessary to protect workers.
Leading causes of fatal workplace injuries
The most common causes of fatal injuries in 2025/26 were:
- Falls from height – 31 fatalities
Being struck by a moving vehicle – 24 fatalities
Being struck by a moving object – 21 fatalities
Falls from height remained the leading cause, accounting for almost a quarter of worker deaths.
Supporting safer workplaces
The 2025/26 figures demonstrate that, despite long-term improvements, businesses must remain vigilant and proactive in managing health and safety risks.
Effective health and safety management is about protecting people, supporting productivity and building resilient organisations.
At Aegis, we are committed to helping businesses create safer, healthier environments for their teams.
Contact us today on 01772 736522 to learn more about our comprehensive health and safety services, and how we can support your organisation in meeting its health and safety responsibilities in 2026 and beyond.