Top ten health and safety prosecutions of 2024
In 2024, health and safety prosecutions led to over £17 million in fines across various industries in the UK. These cases highlight the serious consequences of health and safety failures, which continue to cause life-threatening injuries and fatalities.
Breakdown of incidents
Among the ten largest cases, injuries occurred in the following ways:
- Struck by moving vehicle
- Falls from height
- Drowning
- Crush injury
- Electrical burn
- Chemical burn
Scale of injury
Seven of the ten cases involved fatalities, emphasising the impact of poor health and safety practices. Each of these incidents not only led to loss of life but also incurred severe legal and financial consequences.
Regulatory bodies, such as the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), continue to prioritise enforcement to prevent such outcomes in the future.
Fines by sector
The industries most affected by health and safety breaches in 2024 were the waste and recycling sector, utilities, and construction. Here’s how the fines were distributed:
- Waste and recycling: £6.2 million (3 cases)
- Utility companies: £4.2 million (2 cases)
- Construction: £3.94 million (2 cases)
Key takeaways
The prosecution data from 2024 underscores the importance of rigorous health and safety protocols across all industries. Employers must prioritise:
- Regular risk assessments and training for staff
- Implementing safety management systems
- Ensuring compliance with regulations to prevent injuries and fatalities
Ultimately, investing in robust safety measures not only protects employees but also shields companies from severe legal and financial penalties. Regulatory authorities will continue their enforcement efforts to drive accountability and foster safer working environments.
At Aegis, we are committed to helping organisations create safer, healthier environments for their teams. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive health and safety services.