Understanding RIDDOR: Workplace Injury Reporting and Statistics
What is RIDDOR?
RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations) is a UK regulation that requires employers to report specific workplace incidents to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). These incidents include:
- Work-related accidents that cause serious injury.
- Occupational diseases resulting from workplace exposure.
- Dangerous occurrences, including near-miss events that could have caused harm.
Workplace Injury Statistics (2023-2024)
According to the latest HSE data, from April 2023 to March 2024:
- 61,663 non-fatal injuries to employees were reported under RIDDOR.
- The current rate of workplace injuries is lower than the pre-pandemic level of 2018/19.
- 604,000 workers self-reported sustaining a workplace injury, according to the Labour Force Survey.
- 138 fatal injuries were reported under RIDDOR.
Most Common Non-Fatal Workplace Injuries
The top five most common non-fatal injuries reported under RIDDOR in 2023-2024 were:
- Slips, trips, and falls – 31% of all reported injuries.
- Handling, lifting, or carrying – 17% of reported cases.
- Being struck by an object – 10%.
- Acts of violence – 9%.
- Falls from height – 8%.
Together, these accounted for over 79% of all non-fatal workplace injuries reported under RIDDOR.
Employer Responsibilities Under RIDDOR
Employers have a legal duty to report certain workplace incidents, including:
✅ Workplace fatalities – Any death caused by a work-related incident.
✅ Major injuries – Such as fractures, amputations, or serious burns.
✅ Injuries causing absence of seven or more days – If an employee is unable to work for a week or longer due to a work-related injury.
✅ Dangerous occurrences – Near-miss incidents that could have resulted in serious harm.
✅ Occupational diseases – Such as industrial deafness, occupational asthma, or repetitive strain injuries caused by work.
Why is RIDDOR Important?
The HSE uses RIDDOR data to:
📊 Identify trends and patterns in workplace incidents.
📢 Develop strategies to improve workplace safety and reduce injuries.
🔍 Monitor compliance with health and safety laws.
By ensuring timely and accurate reporting, employers contribute to a safer working environment for all employees.