Provisional figures released today by the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) reveal a milestone achievement for workplace safety in Ireland: the work-related fatality rate in 2024 reached its lowest level since the Authority’s establishment in 1989. The fatality rate per 100,000 workers has fallen dramatically from 2.7 in 2015 to just 1.2 in 2024, representing a significant step forward in protecting the workforce.
In 2024, 33 work-related fatalities were recorded—a 23% reduction compared to 2023’s total. This decline was driven by substantial improvements in high-risk sectors, such as agriculture and construction. These encouraging results reflect the combined efforts of employers, employees, and policymakers in prioritizing safety.
Major Sectoral Improvements
The agriculture and construction sectors—long regarded as some of the most hazardous industries—saw remarkable declines in fatalities:
- Agriculture: Fatalities decreased from 20 in 2023 to 12 in 2024—a 40% reduction.
- Construction: Fatalities dropped by 50%, from 10 in 2023 to 5 in 2024.
Commenting on these improvements, Conor O’Brien, Chief Executive of the HSA, noted, “It is positive to see such a decline in the overall fatality figures for 2024, in particular the significant reduction in the high-risk agriculture and construction sectors. However, every work-related death is preventable. Vigilance and advance planning around health and safety at work are crucial to lowering the number of deaths further.”
Key 2024 Statistics
- Over the past decade (2015-2024), the fatality rate per 100,000 workers fell from 2.7 to 1.2.
- Two-thirds of all fatalities (22) involved workers aged 55 and over.
- Of the 33 fatalities, the self-employed accounted for 55% (18).
- The agriculture, forestry, and fishing sectors contributed 12 fatalities, all within farming.
- Leading causes of fatalities included:
- Vehicle-related incidents (10 fatalities)
- Heavy/falling objects (6 fatalities)
- Falls from height (5 fatalities)
- Males accounted for 91% of fatalities (30), while 3 fatalities involved females.
- Cork, Dublin, and Offaly each recorded 3 fatalities, the highest for any county.
Focus on Vulnerable Groups
The data highlights the heightened vulnerability of older workers, with two-thirds of fatalities involving those aged 55 and over. Mark Cullen, Assistant Chief Executive and Chief Inspector with the HSA, urged employers to take proactive steps to manage risks for older workers: “As Ireland’s labour force ages, it is crucial that employers pay particular attention to work activities involving older workers and ensure their safety is proactively managed.”
The HSA also emphasized the challenges faced by small and micro-enterprises, where fatal incidents occur at higher rates than the national average. Supporting these businesses will be a priority under the HSA’s new Strategy Statement 2025-2027.
A Call to Action for 2025
In light of these developments, the HSA is urging employers and workers to make health and safety a cornerstone of their daily operations in 2025. Mr. O’Brien stressed the importance of risk assessments and advance planning: “Review your work practices, make risk assessment a core part of how you do business, and pay particular attention to high-risk activity including working at height, vehicle handling, and working with machinery.”
Looking Ahead: The HSA’s New Strategy
Celebrating 35 years since its inception, the HSA introduced its 2025-2027 Strategy Statement last year. The strategy addresses significant changes in the workplace, including technological advancements, demographic shifts, and the growing diversity of the workforce.
“The world of work is changing,” said Mr. O’Brien. “Technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and machine learning are transforming workplaces, creating both opportunities and challenges for safety and health. Our new strategy is designed to address these developments and support workers and employers in fostering safe, compliant, and productive work environments.”
The strategy also places a strong focus on supporting small and micro-enterprises by making the Authority’s guidance and resources more accessible. “Regardless of the size of the workplace or number of employees, all workers are entitled to a safe and healthy work environment,” Mr. O’Brien added.
While the reduction in fatalities in 2024 is a promising achievement, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing work needed to achieve zero fatalities. Behind every statistic is a life lost and a grieving family left behind. As Ireland’s workplaces evolve, the commitment to safety must remain steadfast, ensuring that every worker returns home safe at the end of the day.
For more information on workplace safety and resources, visit the HSA’s official website.
