In the UK, falls from height continue to be the single largest cause of workplace fatalities, accounting for over a third of all work-related deaths in 2023/24. This is a staggering statistic, but the financial cost to businesses is equally sobering. An estimated £21.6 billion is lost each year due to workplace injuries and ill-health, with a significant portion of this attributable to falls from height. For a business, this is a financial risk that goes far beyond the immediate cost of an accident. It is a critical business problem that can be solved with a proactive, strategic approach to safety training.
The true cost of an accident
The financial fallout from a fall from height is a complex web of costs, both direct and indirect. While direct costs like fines and legal fees are significant (a fatal accident costs a business an average of £119,200), the hidden costs are often far more damaging. A workplace accident can lead to project delays, loss of productivity, increased insurance premiums, and a decline in employee morale, which can impact a business’s long-term reputation and profitability. The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) highlights that 92% of UK construction professionals have been affected by crime, either directly or indirectly. The cost of a security breach can be significantly reduced for companies that invest in a professional security framework.
A strategic approach to safety
The most effective way to mitigate the risk of a fall from height is to invest in a comprehensive, accredited training program. A course like PASMA training, which focuses on the safe use of mobile access towers, provides workers with the knowledge and skills they need to identify hazards, use equipment correctly, and follow safe procedures. This is a crucial first step in a business’s commitment to a safe working environment. It not only ensures that a business is legally compliant with the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 but also empowers workers to be more productive and confident in their roles.
The payoff: Safety, efficiency and profit
Investing in high-quality height safety training is a strategic business decision. A safe work environment is a more efficient and productive one, as workers can focus on their tasks without fear of injury. This leads to a reduction in costly downtime, a decrease in insurance premiums, and a stronger reputation with clients who prioritise working with responsible partners. By making a proactive investment in safety, a business is not only protecting its most valuable asset—its people—but is also securing its financial future.
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