SGK Data Revealed: Workplace Accidents Increased, 1908 Workers Lost Their Lives in 2024

Ankara – According to SGK’s (Social Security Institution) 2024 data, workplace accidents and occupational diseases significantly increased. While the construction, transportation, and metal sectors led in workplace fatalities, the deaths of child and elderly workers are particularly concerning.

SGK's 2024 Data: Increase in Workplace Accidents, 1908 Workers Died

The Social Security Institution (SGK) has published its 2024 statistics on workplace accidents and occupational diseases. Although undocumented workers are not included in these figures, even the official numbers reveal a dire situation in occupational safety. While SGK’s data is compiled from employer and public health institution notifications, the silence of the Ministry of Labor and Social Security in the face of this increase is noteworthy.

According to the report, a total of 733,646 workplace accidents occurred in 2024. The number of workers who contracted occupational diseases was recorded as 888. Workplace accidents saw an 8% increase compared to 2023. The highest number of workplace accidents were observed in Istanbul, Izmir, Ankara, Antalya, Kocaeli, Bursa, and Tekirdağ. The provinces with the most workplace fatalities were Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Bursa, and Antalya, respectively, with deaths in these provinces accounting for 40% of all workplace fatalities.

Food, Textile, and Metal Sectors Prominent

The sectors with the highest incidence of accidents were food, textiles, basic metal industry, fabricated metal products, construction, retail trade, transportation, accommodation, food and beverage services, and healthcare. Workers forced to work long hours in outdated technology, ergonomic-unfriendly conditions, pay with their lives for job insecurity and pressure.

Deaths in Construction Surged, Elderly and Child Workers at Risk

In 2024, 1908 workers lost their lives. Of these, 552 were in the construction sector, 298 in transportation, 122 in metal, 113 in food, and 105 in the trade sector. The increase in construction deaths is linked to the rising TOKİ projects after the earthquake.

The situation of child and elderly workers is also alarming. Compared to last year, child worker accidents increased by 20%, and accidents involving workers over 60 years old increased by 30%. While 18,000 child workers had accidents, 9,000 workers over 60 suffered accidents. 10 children and 233 elderly workers lost their lives in workplace fatalities. Experts point out that these deaths in these age groups have increased due to MESEM practices (Vocational Education Centers) and economic difficulties.

Occupational Diseases Spreading: Mining, Metal, and Healthcare Stand Out

In terms of occupational diseases, the most common cases were respiratory system, musculoskeletal system, nervous system diseases, and hearing loss. While most occupational diseases were observed in the mining, metal, and textile sectors, significant increases were also recorded in the healthcare sector. Despite the widespread nature of musculoskeletal diseases among healthcare workers, the low rate of reporting is remarkable.

Workers Are Sent to Their Deaths Knowingly

SGK data reveals that workplace fatalities and occupational diseases have become systematic, and workers are almost seen as a disposable resource. Experts emphasize that this situation will not change without fundamental reforms in occupational health, including comprehensive inspection, training, and legislative changes.