The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has outlined its key inspection priorities for the year ahead, placing a stronger focus on tackling the root causes of work-related ill health. This article highlights the main areas under scrutiny and what businesses need to be aware of to remain compliant.
In 2022/2023, the cost of work-related ill health to society an estimated £14.5 billion. Each year, around 20,000 new cases of breathing and lung conditions and approximately 12,000 prevalent cases of hearing problems are caused or worsened by work-related exposure.
In 2023/2024 alone, stress, depression or anxiety accounted for 16.4 million days of work lost. Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) affected around 543,000 workers, contributing to 32% of all work-related ill health and resulting in an estimated 7.8 million lost working days.
In response, the HSE enforcement approach this year is targeting the causes of work-related ill health, with a particular focus on:
- Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
- Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs)
- Asbestos Exposure
- Hazardous Dust
- Health Surveillance
HSE inspections will also investigate any connections between the above risks and work-related stress. They will continue to carry out reactive inspections in response to RIDDOR reports or complaints.
Organisations that fail to manage health and safety effectively may face enforcement action, which can include statutory notices, fines or even imprisonment.
Despite a decline in the number of prosecutions in recent years, the HSE holds a 94% conviction rate in the cases it prosecutes.
To learn more about the HSE’s enforcement strategy, view the HSE Business Plan 2025–2026.
For support in managing work-related health risks in your organisation, please contact our team at tcms@thomas-carroll.co.uk or 02920 853731.
