High number of workplace accidents persists in Estonia

Despite years of efforts to improve working conditions, the number of workplace accidents in Estonia remains high. According to the Labour Inspectorate, 1,562 accidents had been recorded by mid-2023. While there is a trend toward fewer total injuries, the inspectorate notes that the figures may change by year end.

The most common causes of occupational injuries continue to be loss of control over equipment and traffic incidents, which also qualify as workplace accidents. Falls—both from heights and on level ground—are also frequent. Environment consultant Rein Reisberg stated that separate statistics for severe injuries are no longer kept; only fatal accidents and those causing temporary incapacity are recorded. So far this year, one fatality has been reported.

In the first five months, 146 accidents occurred in metalworking, followed by trade and healthcare. In healthcare, conflicts and attacks by patients are common, as are slips on wet floors. Reisberg emphasizes that employers must provide preliminary training to help staff recognize dangerous situations and organize work so employees are not left alone with potentially hazardous patients or clients.

One in three accidents involves workers who have been employed for less than a year. This includes not only young workers but also experienced employees who have changed jobs. At the same time, seasoned workers may be overly confident. The inspectorate regularly receives reports of safety violations—from workers and even passersby, especially at construction sites. Employees who report violations are protected: inspectors are not allowed to tell employers that a check was triggered by a worker complaint.