Worrying drop in HSE convictions

Latest figures published in the HSE’s Annual  Report and Accounts 2018/19 show that convictions for health and safety breaches has dropped significantly in the past 4 years.

In 2018/19 the HSE helped to secure 361 convictions which is less than the 493 convictions in 2017/18 and 570 in 2016/17.  There is also a significant drop of 46% compared to 2015/16 when there were 672 convictions.

The HSE is looking into why these drops have occurred but believes that they could be down to two factors; defence solicitors raising challenges in regards to the Sentencing Guidelines as well as to a larger than normal number of inspectors in training.

Related Stories

The powers of the HSE inspector

HSE Sentencing Guidelines

HSE Annual Report and Accounts 2018/19