Safety to be a top priority on Ireland's farms in 2015

Improving safety is to be a key focus on farms in Ireland during the coming year.

Aine English, chair of the Rural Industries section of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health’s (IOSH) Ireland branch, said farmers are being encouraged to ensure safety is foremost in their minds.

Her comments come after it was revealed that 55 people were killed in work-related accidents in Ireland in 2014, the highest number for six years. Of those 55 deaths, 30 were in the agriculture sector.

Aine said: “The agricultural environment is hazardous for farmers and their families.

“By our very nature, people can be complacent. However, with a change of mindset and culture and by taking ownership of our safety, accidents can be prevented.


“There are many stakeholders involved in conducting and developing agricultural safety initiatives. Continued efforts in 2015 will be a key focal point to encourage and influence farmers to improve safety standards.”

The death toll in agriculture alone increased by 87% year-on-year, and included five children. The overall figure of 55 was a 17% increase on the 47 reported deaths in 2013, according to figures released by the Health and Safety Authority (HSA).

It is the fifth year running that the agriculture sector has recorded the highest number of fatalities in Ireland, with the number of fatalities on farms at its highest in over 20 years.

In light of the increased number of agriculture sector deaths in 2014, IOSH’s Ireland Branch recently discussed how it and its 1,900 members could support the industry in order to improve safety for workers, their families and farm visitors. This may be through research, training initiatives or other appropriate support measures that enhance the HSA’s work.

Excluding agriculture, there were 25 deaths in other economic sectors in 2014. This was down from 31 deaths outside of agriculture in 2013.

The HSA has said it plans to target a number of key areas in 2015 and continue to work in collaboration with other safety and health agencies and bodies.