The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has reported 33 work-related fatalities in 2024, marking a decrease from 43 in 2023. While this is an improvement, it remains above the 2022 total of 28. Encouragingly, the HSA noted that the fatality rate per 100,000 workers has reached a record low of 1.2, down from 2.7 over the ten-year period from 2015 to 2024. This represents the lowest rate since the HSA's inception in 1989.
Sector-Specific Improvements
The construction sector experienced a notable 50 per cent reduction in fatalities, dropping from 10 deaths in 2023 to five in 2024. Similarly, agriculture saw a 40 per cent decrease, with fatalities falling from 20 in 2023 to 12 last year. Despite these advances, the agricultural sector remains one of the highest-risk industries, underscoring the need for continued vigilance.
Key Findings
- Self-employed workers: Accounted for 18 of the 33 deaths.
- Leading causes: Vehicle-related incidents, accidents involving heavy or falling objects, and falls from heights were the primary contributors to work-related fatalities.
- Age factor: Individuals aged 55 and older represented two-thirds of all fatalities in 2024.
- Gender and geography: Of the 33 deaths, 30 were male and three were female. Cork, Dublin, and Offaly recorded the highest number of fatalities, with three deaths in each county.
A Call for Continued Vigilance
HSA Chief Executive Conor O’Brien commended the decline in fatality figures, particularly in high-risk sectors like agriculture and construction. However, he emphasised that every work-related death is preventable.
“Vigilance and advance planning around health and safety at work is crucial to lowering the number of deaths further,” he said.
He added: “The reality is that behind these figures are people who have died, leaving behind heartbroken families, friends, and communities.”
Partner with SafeHands for a Safer Workplace
At SafeHands Health and Safety Solutions, we understand that reducing workplace injuries and fatalities requires a proactive approach to health and safety training. Our team of experts offers onsite face-to-face training and tailored advice to help organisations identify risks and implement effective safety measures.
Let’s work together to make every workplace safer. Contact SafeHands today to schedule your health and safety training or to learn more about how we can support your safety goals.