Businesses still prioritising accidents over long-term health risks, research finds

Many UK organisations are continuing to prioritise accident prevention over long-term workforce health, despite increasing regulatory focus from the Health and Safety Executive on occupational health risks, data from WorkNest revealed.

The research found that while 51% of organisations claim to give equal attention to preventing accidents and managing long-term health risks, only 2% said their primary focus is on long-term health.

By comparison, 37% prioritise accident and incident prevention.

This imbalance comes as the Health and Safety Executive continues to highlight the importance of addressing issues such as musculoskeletal disorders, respiratory conditions and noise-related hearing loss, which account for a significant proportion of work-related ill health across the UK.

Nick Wilson, director of health and safety services at WorkNest, said: “In many organisations, long-term risks are still not receiving the same level of attention as accidents.

“Accidents are often more visible and immediate, so naturally attract focus. Whereas long-term health risks develop over time, which makes them easier to overlook.

“For less physically laborious businesses, such as office-based occupations, musculoskeletal issues and stress, often pose a bigger risk than a slip or trip.”

The findings also highlighted inconsistencies in how organisations manage specific risks.