Work-Related ill Health Climbs to 1.9 Million in 2024/25, Underscoring Urgent Need for Prevention
Recently published Health and Safety Executive data shows 1.9 million UK workers experienced work-related ill health in 2024/25, with 964,000 cases of stress, depression or anxiety and 511,000 musculoskeletal disorders. The impact is substantial: 40.1 million working days lost and 124 workplace fatalities last year alone.
These figures underline the urgent need for employers to take proactive steps to prevent harm and reduce the rising cost of ill health.
The Institute of Occupational Medicine (IOM) is concerned about the trend. Reiterating the view that even in times of economic uncertainty, organisations must prioritise workplace health and safety. Enabling them to reduce the human and financial costs of ill health and setting themselves up for future success.
IOM highlighted previous work done with the British Safety Council on a joint research project, ‘Being Well in a Changing World’. A study which explored the current practices that employers are implementing to support and improve the wellbeing of their workforce. IOM is encouraging workplaces to implement a comprehensive testing and analysis plan, leveraging professional laboratory and occupational hygiene services to prevent harm, manage exposure risks and address any legal concerns with expert witness support.
By acting now, businesses can reduce ill health at work, safeguard productivity, lower costs and protect employees.