On January 1, 2025, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), Great Britain’s national health and safety authority, celebrated its 50th anniversary.
HSE was formally established on January 1, 1975, by the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act of 1974.
It has helped to lower occupational deaths and injuries over the last 50 years, making Great Britain one of the safest places to work.
The most recent data from HSE shows that the number of occupational fatalities has dropped from 651 in 1974 to 138 in 2023–2024.
Current mission and challenges
Sarah Albon, the CEO of HSE, emphasized that even if workplace norms have changed over time, the organization’s goal remains relevant.
“We’re proud of our accomplishments over the past 50 years, but the reality is that any death at work is tragic, and there are still far too many workers who are ill due to work-related activities,” Sarah stated.
Protecting People and Places, HSE’s 10-year strategy was unveiled in 2022 to address new issues and expand its duties.
Evolving responsibilities of HSE
HSE’s mission now includes public safety, regulatory functions, and worker safety.
Recent responsibilities include managing chemical rules after Brexit and serving as the Building Safety Regulator.
Although it is difficult to predict how the workplace will change over the next fifty years, Sarah stated: “As always, our core principle will be to ensure that those who create risk take responsibility for controlling risk.”
Government recognition of HSE’s impact
The contributions of HSE were praised by Sir Stephen Timms, Minister for Social Security and Disability: “This organization has been at the heart of efforts to protect people and places across Britain over the last half-century.” I want to express my gratitude to them for this important work.
He went on to say that the goal of HSE is in line with current projects like the Get Britain Working White Paper and attempts to improve worker safeguards.
Summary
On January 1, 2025, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) commemorated its 50th anniversary.
The organization was established under the Health and Safety at Work, etc. Act of 1974, has been instrumental in bringing down the number of workplace deaths from 651 in 1974 to 138 in 2023–2024.
HSE’s continued dedication to enhancing workplace safety and tackling new issues, such as chemical control and public safety, was emphasized by Chief Executive Sarah Albon.
The organization’s efforts for worker protection and government initiatives were commended by Minister Sir Stephen Timms.
