Construction accounts for a third of workplace deaths

The construction industry accounted for 30% of all workplace accidents last year, according to the latest data from the Health & Safety Executive.

Of the 235 people killed at work last year, 70 died in construction. However, Health & Safety Commission chair Bill Callaghan noted: "Employment has increased in construction and the fatal injury rate fell to 3.55 deaths per 100,000 workers, the lowest level on record."

Of the 70 deaths, 13 occurred in the construction of commercial buildings, 10 in the installation of electrical wiring and fittings and eight in the construction of domestic premises. Of the total, 51 were employees, while the remaining 19 were self-employed.

Three members of the public also died as a result of the construction industry.