In 2025, according to data from the National Social Security Institute (NSSI), the "Transport" sector once again ranked among the top positions in terms of the number of fatal occupational accidents and the total number of work-related incidents. There were 14 fatalities and 319 occupational accidents registered, with the "Land transport" subsector remaining the most affected with 198 incidents. For comparison, in 2024, there were 9 fatalities and the total number of incidents was 376, of which 216 were in "Land transport".

Federation of Transport Trade Unions (FTTU) expresses serious doubts that the actual number of occupational accidents is significantly higher, as some incidents remain undeclared and outside the official statistics. The data confirms that the transport sector remains among the most hazardous in terms of working conditions and occupational safety. In this regard, FTTU insists on urgent measures – improving working conditions, strengthening control and preventive actions, with the aim of preserving the life and health of workers.

A key role in improving working conditions is played by the National Programme for Safety and Health at Work (NPSHW 2025–2027), which defines the priorities for ensuring safe and healthy working conditions until 2027. The programme outlines objectives, specific measures, and priorities that take into account changes in the workplace and the emergence of new occupational risks. Its main goal is to reduce occupational risks, increase the protection of workers, and limit occupational accidents, as well as the working time lost due to temporary incapacity for work.

More information about the programme can be found here: NPSHW 2025–2027.

Effective protection of workers requires compliance with transposed European directives and daily briefings at the workplace. The International Labour Organization (ILO) has adopted over 40 standards on safety and health at work, including measures to address the impacts of climate change on workers and enterprises. In June 2023, the ILO called for the implementation of safety and health measures at work for all those affected by climate risks and proposed tripartite meetings in extreme weather conditions.

A serious problem also remains the insufficient investigation and recognition of occupational diseases in our country. In Bulgaria, only 10–15 diagnoses are officially recognized, despite the country being among the leaders in cardiovascular and oncological diseases related to the work environment. This highlights the need for more active measures to protect workers and expand the scope of recognized occupational diseases.

FTTU reminds that safe and healthy working conditions are not just a legal requirement, but a fundamental human right, guaranteeing the life, health, and well-being of every worker. The "Transport" sector urgently needs enhanced preventive measures, training, and control in order to reduce risks and protect people's lives at work.