TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Ministry of Labor reported that occupational accidents claimed 300 lives in 2023, with the construction industry recording the highest number at 151. The manufacturing sector followed with 78 fatalities, while other industries contributed 90 deaths.
Falls were identified as the leading cause of these fatalities, responsible for 143 deaths. Other causes included collapsing objects, electrocution, and accidents involving machinery.
The ministry has observed a significant rise in construction-related incidents recently, spurred by large-scale projects and a push to expand factories as overseas Taiwanese businesses return.
Experts have expressed concerns that the construction sector's high-risk environment, if not properly managed or safeguarded, could lead to further serious injuries or deaths.
Ho Chia-chun, associate professor of construction engineering at the National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, noted that a lack of disaster prevention awareness among construction workers, coupled with experienced workers' reluctance to use protective gear, heightens the risk of accidents.
To lower the number of fatalities from falls below 68, the Ministry plans to enhance inspections of high-risk areas like roofs, pipe elevator shafts, and construction scaffolds.
With current fines capped at NT$300,000—considered insufficient as a deterrent—the Ministry is contemplating revisions to these regulations.
Experts are also urging the government to increase the ratio of labor inspectors in the construction industry and to appoint dedicated occupational safety personnel to ensure workplace safety.