Britain has sustained its reputation as one of the safest countries globally for workers, according to a recent analysis by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). The report highlights a steady decline in work-related fatalities, with a provisional total of 126 deaths recorded in the past year—marked as the lowest in a single year outside the period affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

The HSE’s new comparative study, which examined fatal injury levels and trends across 35 countries, affirmed Britain’s continued strong standing in workplace safety. This latest figure represents a significant reduction from 217 deaths reported two decades ago and a stark contrast to the 495 fatalities recorded in 1981.

Despite the overall decline, certain sectors remain particularly vulnerable. Construction and agriculture, forestry, and fishing industries accounted for the highest number of fatal incidents. Falls from heights persisted as the leading cause of workplace deaths, comprising roughly one-quarter of all fatal injuries in 2025/26.

Demographic data from the report also revealed that workers aged 60 and above were disproportionately affected. Although representing just 12 percent of the workforce, this age group accounted for approximately one-third of all fatalities during the year, underscoring concerns about risks faced by older employees.

Sarah Albon, chief executive of the HSE, emphasized the human cost behind the statistics, stating that each fatality represents a personal tragedy. She also highlighted the progress made in improving safety standards, expressing that Britain can take pride in maintaining one of the safest working environments worldwide.