What were the most shocking workplace risks in 2024 – and what can you do in 2025?

Latest shocking statistics revealed by the Health and Safety Executive show that the workplace can be an alarmingly dangerous place for everyone who uses it. They include:

• 1.7 million working people suffered from a work-related illness, of which
  • 776,000 workers suffered work-related stress, depression or anxiety
  • 543,000 workers suffered from a work-related musculoskeletal disorder
• 138 workers killed in work-related accidents
• 604,000 working people sustained an injury at work according to the Labour Force Survey
• 61,663 injuries to employees reported under RIDDOR.

The personal cost to those injured and made ill is huge – the statistics show 33.7 million working days were lost due to work-related illness and workplace injury, not to mention the human toll on people and their families are if they are hurt or made ill.

The cost to UK businesses of workplace dangers is huge too. The H&SE statistics estimate the cost of injuries and ill health caused by working conditions could be as high at £21.6 billion in 2022/3.

Ouch! It’s a toll no business wants to contribute to. And Chris Hickman, CEO of Bison Assist, says one of the best ways you can help prevent accidents and illness on your premises is to make sure your risk assessments are up to date.

“Everyone who runs a workplace – including care homes, schools, prisons, shops and other businesses – has a legal obligation to keep their risk assessments current and mitigate the risks.

“But of course no-one would want a member of staff, a visitor or a customer to be hurt or made ill on their premises, and by booking a Bison advisor to pay a visit you can get the best advice on keeping everyone safe.”

Bison experts carry out risk assessments in areas including health and safety, Legionella, fire risk and disability access, with specialist advice for all kinds of sectors.

And you don’t need to wait until your risk assessments are due.

Chris says: “In January, people are good at planning the year ahead, and now’s a great time to get your Bison visit booked in, even if it’s not needed for several months. Then you can pop it on your calendar and forget about it – it’s a great way to get peace of mind from the very start of the year!”

So don’t delay – book your Bison today!