The research was carried out by the TUC, which polled more than 1,000 health and safety representatives from UK workplaces.

The survey also found that 46% of respondents had never had a workplace inspection by a health and safety inspector, as far as they know.

Frances O’Grady, general secretary of the TUC, said the results were deeply worrying.

“…I am appalled that 80% of reps in construction say their workplaces haven't been inspected.

“Construction workplaces can be some of the most dangerous places to work.”

Mr O’Grady claimed that huge cuts to the HSE and to local authorities were undermining vital safety precautions.

“It's time to fund the HSE properly and make sure bosses know that they can't get away with chancing workers' lives in dangerous workplaces.”

Brian Rye, acting general secretary of UCATT, also expected to see support from government.

“This survey result is astonishing.

“What is the point of the HSE if they don’t inspect? 

“If there are effectively no health and safety inspections by the HSE, then unscrupulous employers will neglect the safety of their workers, if it means they can save money.

“This Tory government’s wilful neglect of the British worker is tantamount to creating a wild west in the workplace – and we all know the consequences of such neglect will be injuries and maybe lives lost for construction workers.

“It is utterly shameful.”

Responding to the report, the HSE revealed that it regulates around 900,000 worksites.

"Through improved targeting, we have been able to direct inspectors to the right places, tackling more serious risks,” said a spokesperson for HSE.

“HSE does not measure its impact simply by counting the number of proactive inspections, and never has.

"In addition to planned inspections, HSE directly intervenes with organisations through its response to worker concerns about unsafe activities, it investigates cases of ill health and injury and takes enforcement action where appropriate.”

According to TUC’s survey, 57% of respondents from the manufacturing market said there had been an inspection during the past year.