43 people lost their lives in work related activities last year
The HSA have reported that 43 people died in work accidents in Ireland last year. The vast majority were men, most were in farming or construction from vehicle collisions or falls, most were older workers and most were working on their own.
43 deaths is an increase on the previous years of 23 deaths. However, the trend overall over the past 10 years had showed the trend was decreasing. There are high risks associated with construction and agriculture sectors – two of leading hazards are working from heights and working in vehicles and most of the deaths occurred in these sectors.
Most of the workers who died were older workers (over 55’s) which account for 50%+ in the deaths. Farmers are outside working and tend to become complacent in their work environment, risk assessments are still required in their workday.
The vast majority of those who died were men – 39 out of the 43 which reflects the demographic profiles of the industries that the deaths occurred in.
The HSA have set the target of 10,000 inspections over 2024 – which will be in the form of unannounced visits to various workplaces.
The full press release can be accessed here
