According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), an estimated 561,000 workers in the UK were the victim of non-fatal injuries at work in 2022/23. While electrical incidents make up a smaller portion of these, they can be among the most serious, and were present across all sorts of industries — from construction sites to office buildings.

So, just how many workplace injuries involving electricity are there each year? In this guide, we’ll look at the prevalence of electrical injuries, what causes them, and how employers should be working to prevent accidents under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989.

How common are workplace electrical injuries?

While they’re less frequent than other workplace incidents, electrical injuries are still a serious concern. According to HSE data, around 1,000 electricity-related injuries are reported each year, with approximately 30 fatalities.

Between 2019/20 and 2023/24, electrical accidents accounted for 4% of all workplace fatalities. While that percentage may seem small, these types of injuries are often life-changing — or even fatal — and highlight the importance of electrical safety in the workplace.

What are the most common electrical injuries?

Electricity is used in almost every type of workplace, which means exposure can happen anywhere, especially if safety measures aren’t properly followed. Some of the most common electrical injuries are: 

  • Electrical shocks — Contact with live electrical currents can cause anything from mild tingling to severe muscle contractions or even cardiac arrest.
  • Electrical burns — High-voltage exposure can result in serious burns, both external and internal, damaging skin, muscles, and other tissue.
  • Electrocution — In the most serious cases, electrical contact can lead to fatal injuries.
  • Secondary injuries — Electrical shocks can lead to falls or other accidents, resulting in additional injuries like cuts, scrapes, or broken bones.

Electrical accidents can also have a lasting emotional impact, with some victims experiencing PTSD, depression or anxiety as a result of the incident.

Why do electrical accidents happen at work?

Electrical injuries at work can happen for many reasons, from faulty equipment and exposed wiring to poor maintenance or a lack of proper training. In most cases, they’re entirely preventable. Under the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, your employer has a legal duty to protect you from electrical hazards and provide a safe working environment. This includes:

  • Conducting regular risk assessments — Employers should routinely inspect the workplace to identify and fix potential hazards before they cause harm.
  • Providing proper training and PPE — Staff should be trained on electrical safety procedures and supplied with the right protective equipment for their role.

Failing to meet these responsibilities can put employees at serious risk, and may also result in legal consequences for the employer.

How to stay safe and prevent electrical injuries at work

As an employee, you also have a responsibility over your fellow colleagues. In order to stay safe and prevent any electrical injuries, you should always:

  • Report all hazards — You should immediately notify your supervisors of any electrical hazards or faulty equipment.
  • Adhere to all safety protocols — You need to follow all established guidelines and use protective gear as required.

Whether in an office, warehouse or construction site, by fostering a culture of safety and vigilance, workplaces can significantly reduce the risk of electrical injuries each year.

What should you do after an electrical injury at work?

If you’ve suffered an electrical injury at work, it’s important to act quickly — both for your safety and to protect your right to make a claim. Here are the key steps to follow:

  • Seek immediate medical attention — Even if the injury seems minor, get checked by a medical professional. Electrical injuries can be more serious than they first appear, especially if internal damage is involved.
  • Report the incident — Tell your employer as soon as possible and make sure the accident is recorded in the company’s official accident book.
  • Collect evidence — Take photos of the scene, get contact details from witnesses, and keep any medical records related to your injury.
  • Get in touch — Expert legal advice can help you understand your rights and whether you’re entitled to compensation. At Express Solicitors, we’ll assess your case and guide you through the next steps.

How Express Solicitors can help

At Express Solicitors, we have handled workplace injury claims for over 20 years, including electrical injury cases. We’ll guide you through every step of the claims process and fight to secure the maximum compensation you’re entitled to.

We also work on a no-win, no-fee basis, so there’s nothing to pay unless we win your case. If you’ve been injured at work and want expert legal support, give us a call or start your claim online today. Call us on 0161 904 4661 or Start your claim online.