50 Years of the HSE and the Health & Safety at Work Act

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Established by the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, the HSE was officially launched on 1st January 1975 under its first Director General, John Locke. In April of 1975, new legal duties were introduced for employers, the self-employed, and employees, with the HSE responsible for enforcing them.

Since its inception, the HSE has played a crucial role in improving workplace safety. In 1974, there were 651 workplace fatalities, compared to just 138 recorded in the HSE’s 2023/24 statistics, an 80% reduction. Over the decades, the organisation has adapted to new industries, technologies, and working practices, taking on additional responsibilities as regulations have evolved.

The HSE’s success has been driven by a balanced approach that combines enforcement with education, targeted campaigns, and strong industry and government partnerships.

Reflecting on this milestone, Sarah Albon, the HSE’s current Chief Executive, stated, ‘Over the past half century, the Health and Safety Executive has led the way in establishing Great Britain as a safe place to work. As we look ahead to the next 50 years, we recognise there is still much for the HSE to take on’.

The HSE’s near future has been outlined in their 2022 to 2032 strategy. The strategy highlights key strategic objectives such as:

• a focus on mental health,
• to ensure people feel safe where they live and work,
• to work with industries to develop new safety innovations,
• to support industries moving towards net zero,
• and to maintain Great Britain’s records as one of the safest countries to work in.

While the HSE is less certain on their longer-term future, they remain committed to continuing to work with industry, regulators, and the government to develop safe working environments while enabling economic growth.