Construction Industry – HSE view of the current position

Construction remains a hazardous industry, accounting for almost 30% of all fatal injuries to workers. In the five years to March 2016, 210 construction workers died and many more received life-changing injuries at work.

Performance has improved over the past decade, and the number and rate of fatal incidents, work-related injury and ill health show a general, long-term downward trend. However, the levels of incidents and ill health remain high, with some recent signs of the numbers levelling off.

Developments in the management of health risks in the construction industry have not kept pace with safety improvements. In 2015/16, 3.7% of the workforce suffered from an illness they believe was caused, or made worse, by their work. The sector has a statistically significantly higher rate of occupational lung disease and musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) than the average for all industries.

The majority of fatal incidents in the construction industry involve small businesses, and nearly half of all reported injuries occur in refurbishment activities. Risks on larger projects can be substantial but, generally, large projects are better at controlling risks than most small projects, where there can be a lack of awareness of even basic health and safety standards.

Outcomes and priorities

Construction will continue to be a priority sector for HSE, who want to see a continuation of the downward trends in fatal incidents, work-related injury and ill health, which will be tackled by achieving the following outcomes:

• Embedding the principles of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM)
• Focusing on a reduction in the cases of occupational lung disease, MSDs and work-related stress
• Supporting small businesses to achieve improved risk management and control