Turkey: Already More Than 1,500 Workers Dead from Workplace Accidents This Year

Featured image: Infograph depicting work place deaths in Turkey. Source: Yeni Demokrasi

At least 1,509 workers died in workplace-related accidents across Turkey during the first eight months of 2026, according to a report released by the Health and Safety Labor Watch (İSİG Meclisi). The report recorded 226 worker deaths in August alone, marking the fourth consecutive month in which more than 200 workplace fatalities were reported.

Construction and road work accounted for the highest number of deaths in August, with 68 fatalities. Agriculture and forestry followed with 58 deaths, while transportation, municipal services, and commerce also recorded significant losses. Traffic and service-vehicle accidents were identified as the leading cause of death. Other major causes included falls from heights, collapses and crushing incidents, heart attacks, brain hemorrhages, and electrocution.

The report also highlighted the disproportionate impact on women, children and migrant workers. Fifteen children lost their lives in August.