Now in its sixth year, the report is based on independent research across a range of industries, and tracks how views on workplace safety are changing over time. This year’s results suggest a workplace under more pressure, with more people noticing risks and near misses becoming more common.
Growing sense of risk in the workplace
More than half of workers (53%) say the risk of a major industrial accident is higher now than it was 10 years ago.
51% also say they have seen more “near misses” over the past two years. These are often early warning signs that something in the system is not quite working as it should.
Pressure and fatigue are playing a role
Many workers point to ongoing uncertainty in their jobs and industries. Issues like supply chain disruption are making it harder to get hold of equipment and support when needed. 69% say this uncertainty is adding to stress and fatigue.
61% also say regular organisational change is making it harder to keep safety standards consistent, especially when teams are already stretched.
A gap between frontline staff and leadership
A lot of workers feel there is a disconnect between those making decisions and those working on the ground. 63% of frontline employees say their employer does not fully understand the safety risks they deal with day to day.
More than half (53%) also say the current economic situation makes them less likely to speak up or challenge decisions, even when they have concerns.
Even though 76% say their organisations encourage people to raise safety issues, many do not feel fully comfortable doing so in practice. 51% believe people who raise concerns may be viewed negatively afterwards. This is more common among younger workers.
Trust is becoming more personal
When asked who they trust most on safety, 91% say themselves first. This is followed by safety technology (84%) and employers (76%).
Trust is lower for government and AI systems, showing that many workers feel safety responsibility sits more with individuals than wider systems.
Drugs and alcohol at work
The report also highlights growing concern around drugs and alcohol in the workplace.
Younger workers are more likely to notice an increase in use among colleagues, while older workers are more likely to see it as a serious safety risk.
Almost all Baby Boomers (96%) say drugs and alcohol can affect safety, compared with 78% of Gen Z workers.
Overall picture
The findings suggest many workers are dealing with more pressure and uncertainty than before, along with mixed confidence around speaking up.
It points to a need for clearer communication, stronger consistency, and making it easier for people to raise concerns before small issues become bigger problems.
Read the full report here: The Dräger Safety and Health at Work Report
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