At least 126 workers died in February
In February, at least 126 workers lost their lives in preventable workplace incidents across Turkey. These figures, released by the Workers’ Health and Work Safety Council (İSİG), paint a stark picture of the ongoing risks faced by working people. In just the first two months of 2026, workplace deaths have risen to 284.
The burden of loss is felt across sectors. Industrial workplaces accounted for 49 deaths, while 40 workers died in services, 30 in construction and 7 in agriculture. Each number represents a person who went to work and never returned home.
One of the most concerning findings is that only one of the workers who died was a trade union member. The remaining 123 were working without union protection. This highlights not only the dangers of unsafe working conditions but also the vulnerability faced by non-unionised workers who often lack the power or support to challenge dangerous practices.
As part of our commitment to solidarity, we stand with workers, families and communities across Turkey who continue to demand safer workplaces, stronger protections and justice for those who have been lost. Every life matters, and every avoidable death must strengthen our resolve to support those fighting for change.