The HSE has launched a consultation on RIDDOR

On 7 April 2026, HSE launched a new public consultation into RIDDOR. The consultation aims to gauge key stakeholder opinions on a range of legislative and non-legislative changes, with a view to improving the efficacy of the regulations and their suitability for the modern workplace. The consultation is relevant to all sectors, and will run until 30 June 2026.

The proposed changes are predominantly focused on reducing work-related ill health, and also seek to streamline the reporting process to reduce the burden on organisations making reports. The key changes are summarised below.

Proposal 1: Clarification of definitions in Regulation 2 of RIDDOR and associated guidance

The first proposal seeks to amend the terms used throughout RIDDOR to clarify the definitions set out in regulation 2, with the aim of reducing the reporting of non-reportable incidents arising from uncertainty surrounding terms such as "work-related", "significant" or "routine work".

The HSE has identified that this uncertainty has led to reporting issues, including over 600 over- reporting cases. The aim is to provide more clarity to allow reduce the burden on organisations and the HSE so that only legally reportable incidents are reported.

Proposal 2: Revision of the list of occupational diseases in Regulation 8 of RIDDOR

The second proposal concerns regulation 8, which necessitates the reporting of instances of particular diseases where the person affected was exposed to certain hazards at work. Currently, there are only 6 reportable occupational diseases listed under regulation 8 (Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, cramp in the hand or forearm, occupational dermatitis, Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome, occupational asthma and tendonitis or tenosynovitis in the hand or forearm).

HSE's proposal would see that list updated to include a further 13 reportable diseases, including occupational allergic rhinitis.  This is to encourage identification and improved intervention in sectors where previously reportable diseases remain prevalent, and new diseases have been introduced to address emerging risks.

Proposal 3: Broadening of the scope of accepted diagnoses for reporting purposes in Regulation 2 of RIDDOR

The third proposal seeks to broaden the interpretation of accepted diagnoses for reporting purposes. Under the current regulations, occupational disease diagnoses can only be reported to HSE under regulation 8 if  made in writing by a registered doctor who holds a General Medical Council practicing licence.

HSE is proposing to extend the scope of recognised diagnoses to include those made by other medical practitioners, which could include registered nurses and physiotherapists.

Proposal 4: Revision of the list of dangerous occurrences in Schedule 2 of RIDDOR

Proposal 4 concerns the list of reportable dangerous occurrences detailed in schedule 2. This is currently split into 6 parts, broadly focused on traditionally high-risk industries, including mine and quarry work.

HSE's proposal suggests several revisions to the reportable dangerous occurrences, seeking to capture emerging risks in the modern workplace. A number of proposed new additions are detailed in table 5 of the consultation document, including tunnelling activities and objects falling from heights, and amendments to the existing lists are set out in table 6.

Proposal 5: Improving the reporting process

HSE has noted that an analysis of its data showed that RIDDOR reports are frequently completed incorrectly, often by those not identified as the responsible person for reporting purposes. To address these issues, HSE has proposed changes to improve and clarify the reporting procedures.

Next steps

For now, it is important that your organisation is aware of the consultation and the potential changes to the RIDDOR regime which has been in place for 13 years.

However, the research behind the consultation demonstrates that many organisations struggle to understand or misinterpret their obligations and this leads to risks of over and/or under-reporting. It is an offence not to report a legally reportable incident and over-reporting can lead to unnecessary scrutiny from relevant regulators and increased administrative and operational burdens.

Our experienced team of regulatory solicitors are equipped to advise on the current RIDDOR reporting requirements, and any changes that may come into force in future.

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For further information or support for your organisation please contact Natalie Wargent in our Regulatory Risk and Resolution team.