Who Needs Health and Safety Training?

Health and Safety at work 

When you think of health and safety training, most people will think of work. According to the Governments Health and Safety Executive, 138 people died due to fatal injuries at their workplace in 2023/24, which is why training and having an understanding of workplace dangers is so important.  

Accidents can happen in all industries, which is why knowledge of threats and possible risks is crucial. This list of industries where staff members were fatally injured highlights how accidents can happen anywhere: 

• Construction – 51 fatal injuries 
• Agriculture, forestry and fishing – 23 fatal injuries 
• Manufacturing – 16 fatal injuries  
• Admin and support services – 12 fatal injuries 
• Transportation and storage – 11 fatal injuries 
• Wholesale, retail, motor repair; Accommodation and food – 9 fatal injuries 
• Waste and recycling – 4 fatal injuries 
• Other – 12 fatal injuries 

Construction has the highest number of fatal injuries, as you might have expected. However, you can also see admin and support who will spend the majority of their worklife in an office – showing the importance of health and safety training in an office environment and not just in active environments such as a construction site. 

Health and Safety at home 

Health and Safety isn’t just for the workplace; it also has a huge impact on your home and personal life.  

There are many instances where having knowledge in health & safety can provide support, comfort, or even save a life. Some people may be more inclined to learn about certain topics, depending on their role in their personal life. This can include: 

Parents and Caregivers 
These individuals must be aware of health and safety practices to protect children and dependents from potential hazards at home, such as securing sharp objects, preventing access to dangerous substances, and childproofing the environment. In public, they need to ensure safety around traffic, in playgrounds, and in crowded spaces to avoid accidents or losing sight of children.  

Elderly Individuals 
As people age, the risk of falls, injuries, and medical emergencies increases. Understanding health and safety can help them take precautions, such as using assistive devices, organising their home to reduce trip hazards, and knowing when and how to seek medical help. This knowledge is also essential for maintaining independence and improving quality of life. 

Homeowners and Renters  
A basic understanding of health and safety is crucial for maintaining a safe living environment. This includes safely storing and using household chemicals, ensuring fire alarms are functional, understanding how to prevent and deal with fire hazards, and knowing how to react in case of emergencies like gas leaks or electrical faults. Regular home maintenance, such as checking for mould or ensuring that heating systems are safe, is also important. 

Individuals with Disabilities  
People with disabilities often need to modify their environments to enhance safety and accessibility. This might involve installing ramps, using specialised equipment, or reorganising living spaces to accommodate mobility aids. Understanding health and safety helps them to prevent accidents, navigate their environment more easily, and respond effectively in emergencies.  

Outdoor Enthusiasts  
Those who enjoy activities such as hiking, camping, or rock climbing must understand outdoor safety to avoid injuries or getting lost. This includes knowledge of weather conditions, appropriate gear, first aid, wildlife encounters, and safe food and water practices. Awareness of these factors ensures that outdoor activities are enjoyable and free from unnecessary risks. 

Pet Owners 
Ensuring the health and safety of pets involves understanding potential household dangers, such as toxic plants, harmful foods, or small objects that could be swallowed. Pet owners also need to be aware of how to safely exercise and transport their pets, provide appropriate shelter, and recognise signs of illness or distress in their animals. 

People with Chronic Conditions 
Individuals managing chronic illnesses like diabetes, asthma, or heart disease need a good understanding of health and safety to manage their conditions effectively. This includes knowing how to monitor their health, manage medications, and respond to symptoms or emergencies. It’s also important for them to make lifestyle adjustments that minimise risks associated with their condition, such as diet, exercise, and stress management. 

How to upskill in Health & Safety 

Not only does upskilling allow you to provide confidence in the safety of yourself and those around you, it also opens a pathway to new job roles. The average Safety Specialist in the UK earns £40,005 per year, according to Indeed. This is a role that you can strive towards, or you can choose to stay in your industry and boost your chances by adding a brand-new qualification to your CV. 

Explore our full range of health and safety qualifications today with our online qualifications hub, allowing you to find your course, enroll, and develop new skills all from the comfort of your own home.