A large number of work-related accidents and illnesses are slipping under the radar, it has been claimed.
According to the TUC, some 1.2 million accidents in the workplace and occupational illnesses go unreported each year.
The trades union body is calling for the appointment of a health and safety tsar to monitor health levels in UK firms.
A review of health and safety laws is currently being conducted by the government in an effort to reduce the administrative burden imposed on employers by business regulations.
However, the TUC said that legislation in this area should not be cut.
It argued that the UK is not the safest country in which to work.
Brendan Barber, the TUC’s general secretary, said: “Despite the way that health and safety is often pilloried, for those who are made ill or injured at work, health and safety is no joke.
“Regulation works, as long as it is enforced, and it saves lives and prevents the contraction of unnecessary illnesses. That is why the UK continues to need strong regulation and enforcement.”
