Health and safety may not always be at the top of a business owner’s priority list, but new figures show that overlooking it can come at a significant cost.
Research based on a Freedom of Information (FOI) request found that health and safety breaches have resulted in UK businesses paying an average of £44.1 million in fines each year between 2021 and 2025.
At the same time, the number of prosecutions for serious health and safety offences has continued to rise, highlighting the importance of maintaining robust workplace safety procedures.
Health & Safety Prosecutions Are Increasing
Data released by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) shows a steady increase in serious breaches leading to prosecution.
The number of prosecution cases rose from:
- 428 in 2023
- 446 in 2024
- 496 in 2025
Although total fines fell slightly during 2025, enforcement activity continues to increase, with further prosecutions expected in 2026.
These cases typically involve significant breaches of health and safety legislation where legal action is considered to be in the public interest.
The Cost of Non-Compliance
For many businesses—particularly small and medium-sized enterprises—a health and safety prosecution can have consequences far beyond the financial penalty.
Potential impacts include:
- Significant fines
- Legal costs
- Increased insurance premiums
- Business disruption
- Damage to reputation
- Loss of client confidence
For smaller organisations, these costs can place considerable pressure on cash flow and long-term stability.
Construction Remains the Highest-Risk Sector
The research found that construction businesses accounted for 38% of all prosecution cases during the most recent reporting year.
However, health and safety responsibilities apply across every industry.
Whether you operate an office, retail premises, warehouse, hospitality venue or manufacturing site, employers have a legal duty to protect the health, safety and wellbeing of employees and others affected by their work.
Practical Steps Every Business Should Take
Good health and safety management doesn’t need to be overly complicated.
Some practical measures include:
Maintain a Written Health & Safety Policy
Your policy should clearly outline your approach to managing workplace risks and be reviewed regularly.
Employees should know where to find it and understand its contents.
Appoint a Competent Person
Every business should identify someone responsible for overseeing health and safety arrangements.
This individual should coordinate compliance and ensure procedures remain up to date.
Carry Out Regular Risk Assessments
Risk assessments should identify potential hazards and record the steps taken to reduce or eliminate risks.
They should be reviewed whenever circumstances change or new risks emerge.
Keep Good Records
Maintaining accurate records can demonstrate compliance if requested by regulators, insurers or clients.
Documentation may include:
- Risk assessments
- Training records
- Accident reports
- Equipment inspections
- Corrective actions taken
Train Employees
Health and safety policies are only effective if employees understand them.
Providing appropriate training and regular reminders helps create a safer working environment.
Consider Employee Wellbeing
Health and safety extends beyond physical hazards.
Employers also have responsibilities relating to employee wellbeing and should take reasonable steps to support both physical and mental health.
Prevention Is Always Better Than Cure
Many health and safety incidents can be prevented through simple planning, regular reviews and effective communication.
Taking proactive steps today can help avoid costly investigations, legal action and unnecessary disruption tomorrow.
Final Thoughts
Health and safety compliance is about much more than avoiding fines.
It helps protect your employees, your customers, your reputation and the future of your business.
Regular reviews of your policies, risk assessments and workplace procedures can significantly reduce risk while demonstrating your commitment to maintaining a safe and compliant workplace.
If you’d like support reviewing your business processes, strengthening your compliance procedures or preparing for future growth, we’d be happy to help.
📞 01527 368220
📧 info@ojwassociates.co.uk
