The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) has urged the Scottish Parliament to take action on rising accident rates.
Ahead of the Scottish Parliamentary elections in May, RoSPA has set out its key priorities for accident prevention in Scotland.
Impact of accidental deaths
It says between 2013 and 2023, accidental deaths in Scotland rose by 61%, and now claim more than 2,500 lives each year.
The society says that, beyond the loss of life, accidents cause significant economic loss, drive people out of the workforce, reduce productivity and tax revenues.
The manifesto, titled Towards a Safer Scotland, also lays bare the strain accidents put on the NHS.
RoSPA says accidents cost the UK at least £6 billion annually in medical care. The manifesto covers road safety, home and product safety, leisure and occupational health.
Call to examine gig economy and qualifications
In terms of occupational health and safety, RoSPA suggests the devolved government should carry out a comprehensive study into the gig economy looking at working conditions and compensation for work-related risks.
It also urges the next Scottish Government to look at the development of transferable health and safety qualifications which are specific to Scotland in order to maintain skills.
Lastly, it also wants there to be improved data sharing between Police Scotland and the Health and Safety Executive.
