Information on work-related deaths

In April 2009, the HSE announced that it would publish some details of work-related deaths on a monthly basis through the chief executive’s report to the HSE Board. It said that “the names of the deceased and additional details on these fatal incidents” would be available on the HSE’s Freedom of Information web pages.

The announcement followed a ruling by the Information Commissioner. However, the HSE refused to make a complete disclosure of information. HSE operational guidance states that: “Details of the victim’s employer and/or who had control of the site at the time of death should be provided only when the relevant area inspector has confirmed that this information does not form part of the investigation.”

The HSE also excludes investigations into workplace deaths led by the police, including workplace manslaughter cases.