Death toll at construction sites reaches 78 in the annual count for the previous year
**Article Title: Focus on Safety in Germany's Construction Industry: An Analysis of Fatal Accidents and Preventive Measures**
In the German construction industry, safety remains a paramount concern, as evidenced by the recent statistics and common causes of fatal accidents.
According to data from the Professional Association of the Construction Industry in Germany, there were 78 work-related fatalities on construction sites in 2024, a slight increase from the 76 fatalities recorded in 2023 [1]. Despite this increase, the German construction sector showed signs of stabilization in June 2025, with a slight rise in the Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) [3].
Fatal accidents in the construction industry are often due to serious violations of regulations. Frank Werner, a representative from BG Bau, highlighted this issue, stating that falls, slips, trips, equipment and vehicle accidents, and structural collapses are among the most frequent causes of fatalities globally [2]. In Germany, falling or tilting building parts account for 26% of fatal accidents, while accidents involving construction machinery account for 15% [1].
Werner also emphasized the importance of addressing the most common occupational diseases in construction, such as noise-induced hearing loss, skin cancer due to UV radiation from the sun, and disc-related spinal diseases [1]. Notably, the handling of UV protection has changed significantly in the past 10 to 15 years, with BG providing its member companies with UV protection packages upon request, which include an information brochure, sunscreen with an SPF of 50, a thermos, and sunglasses [1].
To improve safety, it is crucial to emphasize prevention strategies, such as enhanced safety training, improved equipment maintenance, and stringent safety protocols [2][4]. Additionally, analyzing specific causes of fatalities within the German context could help tailor safety measures more effectively.
Werner also pointed out that the younger generation is more sensitive to the topic of health, which could potentially lead to a safer workforce in the future [1]. He also stated that the image of the construction worker with a sun-tanned upper body and undressed on the scaffolding belongs to the past in most cases [1].
As the construction industry and related services still have significantly more workplace accidents than other industries, continued focus on safety measures and preventive strategies is essential for the wellbeing of workers and the overall success of the industry [1]. The number of suspected occupational disease reports continues to rise, with over 21,000 reports in 2024 compared to around 15,800 in 2020, underscoring the need for ongoing efforts to improve safety in the construction sector [1].
[1] German Press Agency [2] Frank Werner, BG Bau [3] Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) [4] Various safety resources and guidelines
*This article is intended to provide factual information and is not intended to express opinions or unverified information.*
- In light of the increasing focus on health and wellness, Frank Werner, a representative from BG Bau, notes that the younger generation is more sensitive to safety issues, potentially leading to a safer workforce in the future.
- The science of workplace-wellness is crucial in the construction industry, as finding ways to prevent accidents, such as falls, slips, trips, equipment mishaps, and structural collapses, can significantly improve the health and well-being of workers.
- General news concerning the construction industry often includes reports of accidents, and these incidents often highlight the need for increased safety measures in the field of health and wellness.
