Turkey reports 1,509 worker deaths in first eight months of 2026

At least 226 workers died in work-related incidents in Turkey during August 2026, according to a report by the Health and Safety Labour Watch Turkey (İSİG). This brings the total number of worker fatalities for the first eight months of the year to at least 1,509. This marks the first time in 15 years that monthly deaths have exceeded 200 for four consecutive months.

Construction and roadwork accounted for the highest number of fatalities in August with 68 deaths, followed by agriculture and forestry with 58, and transportation with 22. Other sectors included municipal services, commerce, and metalwork. The report identified traffic accidents, falls from heights, and crushing incidents as leading causes of death.

The fatalities included 15 minors, four of whom were aged 14 or younger. Two of these child workers were enrolled in the Vocational Education Centers (MESEM) program. The report also noted the deaths of 15 women and 16 migrant workers from countries including Syria, Afghanistan, Georgia, Uzbekistan, Iran, and Turkmenistan. İSİG attributed the rising death toll to intensified working conditions and called for urgent measures to combat child labor and seasonal agricultural risks.