New research found that 26% of tradespeople have a suffered a workplace injury that left them unable to work for over six months.
The data from Direct Line business insurance also showed that 29% have had an injury that prevented them from working for between a week and a month. A total of 95% of tradespeople said they’d been injured at work at some point.
This research has followed new figures from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) which revealed that 50,000 construction workers suffered a workplace injury in 2024 to 2025.
The HSE’s data for 2024 to 2025 showed that construction is the second most dangerous sector for workplace injuries with 2,500 injuries per 100,000 workers, compared to 3,080 per 100,000 in accommodation and food service.
According to Direct Line’s research, 15% of tradespeople said that they weren’t very aware of the health and safety rules that apply to their job, with a further three percent admitting to having no awareness of the rules at all. Less than half of all the tradespeople, 39%, who responded to the survey said that they were fully aware of health and safety rules and make sure that they stay abreast of any changes.
Even when tradespeople are aware of the health and safety requirements, they aren’t always followed. A total of 39% said that they were adhered to all the time, a further 42% noted it was most of the time and 13% admitted they were followed some of the time. More than five percent of tradespeople said the rules were rarely or never followed.
Falling from a height is the most common cause of injuries on construction sites. Injuries whilst lifting or carrying account for the most injuries that result in a week or more off work.
Mark Summerville, SME product manager at Direct Line business insurance, said: “Whilst the trend in construction injuries and fatalities is downwards, the numbers are still too high.
“Health and safety awareness in some businesses remains inadequate, resulting in preventable workplace injuries and, in some rare cases, fatalities. Neglecting to implement and adhere to health and safety regulations can lead to physical harm, avoidable business interruption and potentially significant legal repercussions.
“It is essential for businesses and their employees to ensure that they have the correct health and safety training and that they are up to date on current regulations. Equally important is fostering a culture where safe working practices are deeply embedded in the day-to-day.”
