Workplace Fatalities Rise in Israel Despite Decline in Safety Orders, Report Shows

The Israeli labor rights organization "Ko LaOved" released its semi-annual report on workplace safety on Monday, revealing a troubling increase in fatal work accidents alongside a decline in safety enforcement measures. In the first half of 2026, 39 workers died in workplace accidents, the highest number since 2023. The construction sector accounted for 20 of these deaths, while fatalities in the industrial sector nearly doubled to 11 compared to the same period last year. Migrant workers represented 28% of all fatalities across industries.

The leading cause of deadly accidents was falling heavy objects, responsible for 31% of deaths, followed by falls from height at 23%. Additionally, 306 workers suffered moderate to severe injuries during this period, marking an increase from the previous year. Despite the rise in accidents, the number of safety inspectors remained nearly stagnant, with only 80 inspectors nationwide, a slight increase from about 70 in 2017. The Ministry of Labor issued 1,139 safety orders in the first half of 2026, mostly in construction (844 orders), representing a significant drop from 3,057 orders issued in the same period in 2020.

The report highlighted that cities with the highest severe accident rates were Tel Aviv (15), Haifa (13), Ashdod (12), Jerusalem (11), and Netanya (11). However, Haifa, Ashdod, and Netanya had notably low numbers of safety orders issued, indicating insufficient enforcement. "Ko LaOved" criticized these municipalities for failing to engage proactively in safety efforts. The report also noted that recent safety regulation changes have yet to take effect, and since the resignation of the previous Labor Minister in August 2025, no dedicated successor has been appointed. Currently, Labor Minister Yariv Levin holds the portfolio alongside other responsibilities.

"Ko LaOved" called for urgent government action, including appointing a full-time Labor Minister, establishing a National Authority for Occupational Safety and Health, and implementing legislative reforms to improve workplace safety culture. The organization urged political parties ahead of upcoming elections to prioritize worker safety and for the new government to restore employment security through enhanced enforcement, better data transparency, and stronger sanctions against violations. Lawyer Diana Baron, head of public policy at "Ko LaOved," emphasized the need for transparency and comprehensive reforms to ensure workers return home safely from their jobs.