Make UK warns on workplace health enforcement risks

Make UK is sounding the alarm for manufacturers, warning that neglecting crucial workplace health issues could lead to hefty fines and, in severe cases, enforced shutdowns.

This alert comes on the heels of a new approach from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), which is now taking a much more proactive stance on workplace health during routine inspections. This shift is part of a fresh ten-year strategy aimed at tackling the rise in workplace-related health problems that have surged in recent years.

According to the latest data from the HSE released last month, a staggering 1.9 million workers were impacted by work-related health issues in 2024/25. That’s an increase of 200,000 from the previous year. The bulk of this rise is linked to stress, depression, and anxiety, with cases jumping from 776,000 to 964,000.

The increasing number of work-related health conditions has led to over 30 million working days lost each year, costing the UK economy around £14 billion annually. Additional figures reveal that in 2024, the HSE carried out 246 criminal prosecutions, resulting in fines totaling £33 million. About half of these cases were related to workplace health concerns.

The new HSE strategy zeroes in on six key areas: manual handling, display screen equipment, COSHH, noise, mental health, and stress. Consequently, workplace inspections now give equal weight to health and safety. Inspectors are increasingly requiring employers to show how they are addressing health hazards, what control measures are in place, and how they ensure those measures remain effective.

Make UK has pointed out that workplace health risks can often be trickier to spot and evaluate than immediate safety hazards. The effects on health can also surface years later, leaving employers vulnerable to enforcement actions and potential prosecutions long after the initial exposure.

Make UK is dedicated to enhancing health outcomes in the UK manufacturing sector and continues to provide valuable support to its members through expert advice, practical templates, and innovative software solutions aimed at helping employers effectively manage workplace health.

Employers can access support and guidance through: Healthy Workplaces | Make UK

In a recent statement, Chris Newson, Director of Environment, Health and Safety at Make UK, remarked:

“This is a positive step from HSE to elevate workplace health to the same level of importance as safety, especially given the concerning rise in workplace health issues. Manufacturers must recognize this significant new emphasis on enforcement by HSE and ensure that health is integrated into their regular safety controls. This focus will increasingly come into play during inspections, and companies need to have robust processes in place to uphold workplace health and ensure these measures are effective. Neglecting this could expose them to the risk of prosecution and, in severe cases, even temporary shutdowns until the issues are addressed.”