The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) recently published provisional figures showing the number of workplace fatalities in 2025. The figures revealed that workplace fatalities in Ireland rose from 36 in 2024 to 58 in 2025, representing an increase of 61%.
In addition to the increase in overall fatalities, the HSA also announced that:
- Agriculture was the most dangerous sector to work in in 2025, with 23 workplace deaths recorded.
- 33% of fatal incidents involved victims aged 65 or over, with one victim being 88 years of age.
- 40% of all victims were self-employed.
- The most common causes of workplace fatalities in 2025 were falling from a height, being struck or crushed by falling objects, and incidents involving heavy machinery and vehicles.
What should employers learn from this?
As we move into 2026, these concerning statistics are a vital reminder for employers across all sectors to review their workplace safety systems.
All business owners, and particularly those working in high-risk industries such as farming or construction, should take this opportunity to assess and revise their policies, procedures, and safety documentation.
How to prevent workplace accidents: Top advice for employers
Here are some of our top tips for ensuring safety in the workplace:
Risk assessments: Employers should conduct regular risk assessments to identify any and all potential hazards in the workplace. The results of these risk assessments should be documented, and measures should be taken to mitigate the associated risks. Employers should also conduct a risk assessment every time a new process, procedure, or piece of equipment is introduced to business operations.
Safety statement: A Safety Statement is a vital piece of safety documentation and a legal requirement for every business. This document should be accurate, complete, and readily available to employees.
Training: Failure to conduct sufficient Health & Safety training for your staff may significantly increase the risk of workplace accidents. Ensure that you conduct regular and comprehensive training for all employees, particularly those who are operating heavy machinery or engaging in high-risk activities.