The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has published provisional figures showing 58 work-related fatalities in 2025, a 61% increase compared to 36 in 2024. HSA CEO Mark Cullen described the rise as “deeply concerning,” noting that these are the highest numbers since 2007, when 67 people lost their lives in workplace accidents.
Fatalities by sector:
- Agriculture, forestry & fishing: 23 (20 in farming, 3 in fishing)
- Construction: 10
- Transport & storage: 5
- Administrative & support services, arts & entertainment, human health & social work, water supply/waste: 2 each
- Other sectors (mining, public administration, retail, accommodation): 1 each
Leading causes of fatal accidents:
- Heavy loads/falling objects: 14
- Struck by a vehicle: 14
- Falls from height: 9
- Livestock-related: 4
- Trapped by an object: 4
- Vehicle loss of control: 4
- Other causes include machinery incidents, drowning, and falls.
Mr Cullen highlighted that many fatalities continue to involve vehicles, machinery, and falls from height, indicating that known risks are still not being properly controlled. Notably, 19 of the fatalities were over 65, and 23 were self-employed, underscoring the particular dangers for older workers and those working alone.
He emphasised: “Working safely is entirely possible even if you are self-employed or working alone. In high-risk sectors such as agriculture and construction, extra vigilance and planning are essential to prevent accidents.”
Looking ahead, the HSA plans a comprehensive programme of risk-based inspections and targeted interventions in the sectors that pose the highest safety risks.
New Asbestos Regulations & Enforcement Update
Alongside these figures, new asbestos regulations have come into effect, reinforcing employer responsibilities for safe handling and removal. Compliance is critical, recently, a construction company was fined €70,000 for breaches of safety legislation, demonstrating that enforcement is active and penalties are significant.
Safety is everyone’s responsibility. At Trant O’Meara, we remain committed to supporting our clients in upholding the highest health and safety standards to prevent accidents and protect the wellbeing of employees whether on site, in the office, or working independently.
[Read the full HSA report here]
