SSI Data Announced: Work Accidents Increased, 1908 Workers Lost Their Lives in 2024

SGK data for 2024: Increase in work accidents, 1908 workers lost their lives

The Social Security Institution (SSI) has published the occupational accidents and occupational diseases statistics for 2024. Although unregistered workers are not included in these data, even official figures reveal a grave picture in the field of occupational safety. While the data of the SSI is prepared with the notifications of employers and public health institutions, the silence of the Ministry of Labor and Social Security in the face of this increase draws attention.

According to the report, a total of 733,646 work accidents occurred in 2024. The number of workers with occupational diseases was recorded as 888. There was an 8 percent increase in work accidents compared to 2023. The highest number of occupational accidents occurred in Istanbul, Izmir, Ankara, Antalya, Kocaeli, Bursa and Tekirdağ. The provinces with the highest number of occupational homicides were Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Bursa and Antalya, and deaths in these provinces accounted for 40 percent of the total number of occupational homicides.

Food, textile and metal sectors at the forefront

The sectors with the highest number of accidents were food, textiles, basic metal industry, fabricated metal products, construction, retail trade, transportation, accommodation, food and beverage services and health. Forced to work with old technology, in non-ergonomic conditions, for long hours, workers pay the price of precariousness and oppression with their lives.

Construction deaths climb, elderly and child workers in danger

1908 workers lost their lives in 2024. Of these, 552 worked in construction, 298 in transportation, 122 in metal, 113 in food and 105 in trade. It is stated that the deaths in construction are linked to the increasing number of TOKİ projects after the earthquake.

The situation of child and elderly workers is also worrying. Compared to last year, there was a 20 percent increase in child labor accidents and a 30 percent increase in accidents involving workers over 60 years of age. While 18 thousand children had work accidents, 9 thousand workers over the age of 60 had accidents. 10 children and 233 elderly workers lost their lives in occupational homicides. Experts point out that deaths in these age groups are increasing due to MESEM practices and economic difficulties.

Occupational diseases are spreading: Mining, metals and health stand out

In terms of occupational diseases, the highest number of cases were identified as diseases of the respiratory system, musculoskeletal system, nervous system and hearing loss. While the highest number of occupational diseases were observed in the mining, metal and textile sectors, there was a significant increase in the health sector. Despite the prevalence of musculoskeletal diseases among health workers, the low reporting rate draws attention.

Laborers are being sent to their deaths

SGK data reveals that occupational homicides and occupational diseases have become systematic and workers are seen as an expendable resource. Experts emphasize that this picture will not change without a radical inspection, education and legislative reform in the field of occupational health.

source: ISIG Assembly