The HSE has recently published its statistics on work-related injuries and ill health for 2004/2005.

These show improvements in Health and Safety at Work are continuing compared to the previous year:

• Fatal injuries to workers were down 7% (220, from 236)
• Reported major injuries to employees fell 2.2% (to 30 213)
• Reported over-3-day injuries fell 8% (to 120 346);

Other striking statistics in the report include the following:

• Over one-third of all reported major injuries were caused by slipping or tripping
• 40% of over-3-day injuries were caused by handling, lifting and carrying
• 2 million people suffered ill health that they believe was caused by a work-related activity (down from 2.2 million in 2001/2)
• Stress and musculoskeletal disorders account for around two-thirds of occupational ill health While we are in a statistical mood, here are a couple of seasonal Health and Safety plums supplied by one of our Health and Safety advisors (who on this occasion wishes to remain nameless!):
• 543 people were admitted to casualty in the last two years opening beer bottles with their teeth
• British hospitals last year reported 4 broken arms from cracker pulling accidents Whoever said Health and Safety Advisors haven't got a sense of humour!

For advice on Health and Safety, subscribe to www.hrahealth.co.uk or talk to Campbell on 01494 451 681

December 2005