UK Economy Loses £22.9bn Yearly to Workplace Injury and Ill Health
By Safety Desk · 06 November 2026
New data highlights the massive financial impact of workplace incidents, with 40.1 million working days lost in the 2024/25 period.
Recent figures reveal that workplace injuries and occupational ill health are costing the British economy an estimated £22.9 billion annually. This substantial figure underscores the critical importance of robust safety management and the provision of high-quality protective equipment across all industrial sectors.
In the 2024/25 period alone, an estimated 40.1 million working days were lost due to health and safety failures. For procurement officers and safety managers, these statistics serve as a stark reminder of the hidden costs associated with inadequate training or inferior safety gear, which often far outweigh the initial investment in compliant PPE.
To mitigate these risks, businesses are encouraged to review their current safety protocols and ensure that all staff have access to the correct workwear and equipment for their specific tasks. Reducing the frequency of accidents not only protects personnel but also safeguards the operational continuity and financial health of the organisation.
Source: IOSH Magazine