Negligent Homicide in the Workplace: Responsibilities and Legal Accountability

Abstract

Workplace manslaughter provides a multilevel crossroads of interest in occupational health, legal liability and medical jurisprudence. This article analyzes among the cases in which endorsers were killed while working, including evidence of causes and patterns contributing to death and court action. This study aimed to review the frequency, nature and legal consequences of work place negligent homicide cases reported at Salimullah Medical College, Dhaka, Bangladesh and to ascertain what factors influenced them. This cross-sectional retrospective study was done during January to December 2023 at Salimullah Medical College, Bangladesh. Comprehensive data collection and statistical analysis were adopted to conduct the systematic study among a total of 53 suspected workplace negligent homicide cases. The analysis found 68% of the negligent homicide cases in the workplace were industrial, and mechanical failures (34%) and lack of safety plans (28%) were top contributing factors. 79% of cases were males with the most affected age group being 25-45 years (62%). Criminal responsibility was found in 41% of cases. Workplace negligent homicide is still an issue of concern, despite the importance of ensuring more rigid comprehensive safety management systems, frim up the legal system and necessity to strengthen cooperation among related parties to avoid further occurrence.  

CBMJ 2026 July: Vol. 15 No. 02 P:314-324