Figures obtained by union Unite reveal that since 2010 there has been a 25% reduction in the number of Health and Safety Executive inspectors.

Back in 2010 there were 1,311 frontline inspectors, by the end of last year this had fallen to just 980.

Unite has released the figures obtained from a Freedom of Information request just before International Workers’ Memorial Day to highlight the increasing lack of enforcement and safety protection in the workplace.

The cut in inspectors follows revelations earlier this week, also acquired via an FOI that it takes three years four months on average for any sentence to be handed down after a workplace fatality.

Unite acting general secretary Gail Cartmail, said: “HSE inspectors play a vital role in keeping workers safe.

“Rogue bosses who are prepared to break safety laws, are only kept in check by the fear of being caught and punished. Fewer inspectors mean more bosses willing to risk workers’ lives to boost profits.

“In these circumstances it is more important than ever that union safety reps are given the training, support and time to conduct their duties and keep their fellow workers safe.”