Rebecca Hickman
CEO
RoSPA
Unequal risks: How inequality shapes unintentional injury at work
Workplace safety is often discussed in terms of hazards and compliance, but what if the deeper driver of injury risk lies in inequality itself? This presentation shares findings from new research funded by Lloyd’s Register Foundation and conducted by RoSPA, exploring how inequality influences the risk of unintentional injury at work.
Using data from the 2023 Lloyd’s Register Foundation World Risk Poll, the study applies regression analysis to examine global patterns in both actual and perceived workplace harm across different socioeconomic and demographic groups. By analysing how factors such as income, education, gender, and employment type intersect with injury risk, the research reveals systemic disparities in who is most vulnerable to harm at work—and why.
The session will present initial insights from this global analysis, discuss implications for occupational safety practice and policy, and outline opportunities for more inclusive, evidence-based approaches to injury prevention. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how social inequality shapes workplace safety outcomes and what can be done to create fairer, safer working environments for all.
Becky became RoSPA’s first female CEO in 2024, bringing over 20 years of experience to the role. Under her leadership, RoSPA has revitalized its sales, marketing, and strategic partnerships, collaborating with industry giants like L’Oréal to cement its global influence in health and safety.
For more than 100 years RoSPA has been the charity which creates a safer society by preventing accidents. Working with and through their membership RoSPA leads the agenda, shapes policy, raises standards, and drives behavioral change.
Becky spearheads this mission via the prestigious RoSPA Awards, which attracts entrants from over 70 countries and has a reach of over seven million employees worldwide. Becky’s visionary approach ensures RoSPA’s enduring global impact and commitment to safety and innovation.