Definition
The Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013. RIDDOR requires employers to report certain workplace accidents, occupational diseases, and dangerous occurrences to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
UK Context
RIDDOR 2013 applies across Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales). Reports are made to the HSE (or the relevant enforcing authority for certain sectors). The HSE publishes annual RIDDOR statistics, which inform national occupational health and safety policy. Northern Ireland has its own equivalent regulations.
Best Practices
- Train all managers on what constitutes a RIDDOR-reportable incident and the reporting timelines
- Embed RIDDOR reporting into the organisation's accident investigation process so reportable incidents are identified promptly
- Keep records of all workplace accidents, including those that are not RIDDOR-reportable, for at least 3 years
- Review RIDDOR reports periodically to identify patterns and implement preventive measures
Frequently Asked Questions
What incidents must be reported under RIDDOR?
Deaths, specified injuries (fractures, amputations, loss of sight, etc.), over-7-day incapacitation, certain occupational diseases, and dangerous occurrences (near misses) must be reported. The HSE website provides a full list of reportable incidents.
How quickly must a RIDDOR report be made?
Deaths and specified injuries must be reported without delay — fatalities by telephone immediately, specified injuries online within 10 days. Over-7-day incapacitation must be reported within 15 days. Dangerous occurrences and occupational diseases must be reported as soon as reasonably practicable.
What happens if an employer fails to report under RIDDOR?
Failure to report is a criminal offence. The HSE can prosecute, and the penalties include unlimited fines. The HSE may also use the failure to report as evidence of broader health and safety management failures during inspections.