This is one of the highest numbers in the last decade. Over the past 10 years, only 2021 saw more fatalities. Even more seriously, 6 work-related deaths have already been recorded at the beginning of 2026.
Of the 30 accidents, 25 involved vehicles, machinery or work equipment. Traffic and crushing accidents were the most common. Some workers were killed while working with machinery, some were killed when vehicles overturned or in incidents that occurred on the work area rather than on public roads.
How to reduce the risk of fatal accidents in the workplace?
- Make a realistic risk assessment before starting work - not a box-ticking exercise, but one based on actual working conditions. Assess what could happen if machinery breaks down, overturns or a worker is in a hazardous area.
- Ensure clear rules for working with machinery - who can operate the equipment, what permits are required, what safety precautions are mandatory and when work must stop.
- Pay attention to maintenance and repair of machinery - some accidents have occurred during maintenance or repair work where safety controls were inadequate.
- Involve employees in discussing risks - they are the best people to see where the risks actually occur in their daily work.
- Create a safety culture where work doesn't start automatically - there must be time to pause, assess the situation and choose a safer solution.
If you want to make sure that your company's risk assessment is in line with the real world and the requirements of the law, Nord HMS can help you to review your processes and strengthen prevention.
Related: Health and safety at work (HMS) on-site inspections · HMS IK system · In-house health and safety training for companies