Work-related accidents in Northern Ireland have dropped by over 20% in the last five years, according to the Health and Safety Executive.

The Executive's latest Annual Report and Statement of Accounts, covering the period April 2007 to March 2008, records that from 2003 to 2008 the number of injuries at work being reported fell from 4,162 to 3,273 - representing a 21% reduction.

Professor Peter McKie, HSENI's Chairman, described the reduction as "significant".

He said: "Whilst one must always remain cautious against reading too much into statistics, I see the continuing downward trend as a clear endorsement of the innovative and challenging approach being adopted by HSENI since its establishment as the regional authority for health and safety in 1999."

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Mr McKie said the positive reduction could be attributed to three key element - better training; the recognition of good practice; and the Executive's firm stance on those flouting the law.

"Credit must also be paid to the work undertaken by HSENI's enforcement partners, the District Councils, who have supported HSENI in its drive to tackle the priority issues and have undoubtedly contributed to the improvements seen over recent years," he added.

HSENI's field staff carried out over 5,000 inspection and investigation visits last year, served nearly 250 enforcement notices, which either stopped unsafe work or required improvements in working conditions, and completed 16 prosecutions.

Professor McKie said "Whilst we will certainly assist and encourage those employers who want to improve their health and safety management, our inspectors will use their considerable enforcement powers whenever appropriate to ensure that others less willing are not allowed to escape their legal duties to protect their workers"

(PR/JM)