More than 100 injuries were recorded in the UK onshore wind sector last year, according to new figures.
Data published today by SafetyOn shows a decrease in lost work day incidents in 2021, despite a ramping up in the number of hours worked.
A total of 593 incidents were recorded in onshore wind in 2021 across just over 7 million hours worked.
That is a 20% reduction in lost work day cases from 2020 levels, and a decrease of more than half for incidents requiring an emergency response or medicals evacuation.
Of the 593 onshore wind incidents logged, 134 (23%) caused direct injury to a person – half of those needed first aid.
A total of 6 incidents required Emergency Response Medical Evacuation (EMRE), with no fatalities occurring in the sector.
Despite the progress, SafetyOn said it remains vigilant, particularly given the 5% increase in incidents categorised as high potential.
New for 2021, SafetyOn collected data on fallen and dropped objects, which presents significant potential for fatality and major injury.
As with last year, routine maintenance, working with electrical systems, and incidents during access or egress remained the top three process where incidents occurred.
Don Mackay, SafetyOn chairman and director of operations at EDF Renewables, said: “The progress made is testament to the hard work of SafetyOn and its members.
“This is the second year SafetyOn has collected and analysed data, allowing industry to benchmark its performance accurately across several critical safety metrics.
“Despite the progress made, our focus on safe operations remains resolute as we work in collaboration with others to provide leadership and guidance on industry health and safety.”
Based at the Energy Institute, SafetyOn brings together 64 member organisations and other industry stakeholders to mitigate key emerging risks through cooperation and shared learning.
Established in 2019, the group works to tackle health and safety issues in the industry through four main work programmes; incident data reporting, good practice guidelines, safe by design and learning from shared incidents.
Energy Institute chief executive Nick Wayth added: “I’m proud of the role SafetyOn is playing to drive collaboration and ensure a safer sector for all.
“Onshore wind is a growing industry and a vital component of the UK’s journey to net zero. As the sector scales up, SafetyOn is ensuring the health, safety and wellbeing of the workforce remains our primary focus.”
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