More than one in two injuries in work go unreported, new research reveals

In latest figures released by Slater and Gordon for Injury Awareness Week, one in seven people suffered injuries at work in the last 12 months.

Despite almost 5 million people suffering a workplace injury each year, the shocking reality has shown that only 55% decided to report their injury.

With a significant number of injuries going unreported, not only are those responsible unable to take accountability, but other employees are left vulnerable to suffering similar injuries if clear risks remain unresolved.

The figures raise questions as to why employees are choosing not to report their injury, even though 89% of workplace injuries needed further assistance or a period of recovery.

From broken bones and fractures (28%), bruises and sprains (27%) to even one in five sustaining head injuries (21%), many respondents needed medical treatment at 28% and more than a quarter required time off work at (26%).

However, a gap in reporting still remains. So why are employees hesitating?

Across the research, respondents were left feeling like they may be stigmatised or judged, with others simply brushing off their injury.

42% expressed they didn’t think their injury was serious enough to be reported and more than one in five felt too embarrassed or didn’t want to appear dramatic. A further 16% even felt they would be accused of being at fault.

With injury also comes long-term implications. Of those injured, 18% said their physical health never returned to how it was and 12% said they were injured permanently, both causing a significant long-term impact to their everyday life.

For other respondents, shockingly 16% were encouraged to leave their industry altogether and 13% had to quit their job due to the seriousness of their injury.

Ultimately, the findings highlight a deeply concerning underreporting of workplace injuries, driven by fear and lack of awareness. Employers must ensure they maintain safe and regulated environments, where their employees not only feel safe, but also have the confidence to speak up.

Bob Miller, associate solicitor, adds: “The data shows that employers must do better in protecting their employees. This starts from effective training plans in place, risk management, regular safety reviews, as well as empowering their employees to report any incidents or dangers, without fear.

“The figures are an unfortunate reflection that some employers are still failing in their legal duties, with real consequences for employees including physical injury, mental health impacts and even long-term harm.

“For Injury Awareness Week, I strongly encourage employers to reflect if they are doing everything they can to protect their employees. Employers have a duty of care to put practical measures in place to prevent avoidable injuries.”