Workplace ill-health is more prevalent in the public sector — with the highest number of cases being in human health had social work sector, according to data from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
All top three sectors, when it comes to the proportion of staff suffering ill health, where areas which are predominantly public sector roles, with the second highest number of cases in public administration, defence and social security followed by education.
Overall the HSE data shows there are now 1.7m cases of work-related illnesses annually – costing UK businesses around £14.5bn each year (around £21,5000 per case on average.) This is nearly twice as expensive as the £7.1 billion cost of injuries (£11,700 per case on average).
This data was analysed by finance experts to identify the sectors in the economy with the highest numbers of workplace illness.
The analysis by business bank, Money.co.uk found that there were around 129,000 cases of work-related illnesses in the health and social care sector — one of the biggest employers in the UK.
This works out at around 2,780 cases for every 1,000 people employed. The financial provider points out that roles in this sector are often physically and emotionally demanding — from providing care to managing complex human needs.
Money.co.uk has produced a list of the sectors with the highest number of cases. After public administration (2,520 cases per 1,000) and education (19,80 cases per 1,000) the other sectors where predominantly private sector areas. This includes transportation (1,770 cases per 1,000), information and communications (1,700 per 1,000), financial and insurance activities, (1,650 per 1,000) professional scientific and technical activities (1,620 per 1,000) and then manufacturing (1,450 per 1,000).
Money.co.uk said these figures highlight the importance of continued focus on wellbeing support, adequate staffing, and mental health resources for those on the front line of care and support.