Celebrating 50 years of workplace safety
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), launched on 1 January 1975 under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.
New legal duties for employers, the self-employed and employees came into effect in April 1975, with the HSE established as the regulatory body responsible for enforcement.
Progress over five decades
In 1974, there were 651 recorded workplace fatalities. According to the HSE’s 2023/24 statistics, that figure has fallen to just 138 — an 80% reduction over 50 years.
The HSE’s work has spanned traditional industries and new technologies, evolving in line with modern workplaces. Their approach balances enforcement with education, industry partnerships, and public campaigns.
A message from the Chief Executive
Reflecting on the milestone, Sarah Albon, Chief Executive of the HSE, said:
“Over the past half century, the Health and Safety Executive has led the way in establishing Great Britain as a safe place to work. As we look ahead to the next 50 years, we recognise there is still much for the HSE to take on.”
Looking to the future
The HSE’s 2022 to 2032 strategy outlines key priorities for the coming decade, including:
- Promoting better mental health at work
- Helping people feel safe where they live and work
- Supporting innovation in workplace safety
- Backing industries moving towards net zero
- Maintaining the UK’s position as one of the world’s safest places to work
Collaboration remains key
While the longer-term future of the HSE is less defined, its mission remains the same: to work alongside government, industry and other regulators to develop safer working environments and support economic growth.
