Kilkenny builders and farmers targetted in deadly falls safety campaign
HSA campaign to address falls from height
Falls from height remain one of the leading causes of death and serious injury in construction and agriculture.
To tackle this, the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) and the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) have launched a month-long, all-island inspection campaign.
Running throughout the month of October, this joint will see inspections taking place on construction sites and farms of all sizes across the island, with the goal of reducing the number of serious injuries and fatalities linked to work at height.
On the island of Ireland in the last 10 years (2015 – 2024), there were 70 fatalities in the construction industry as a result of falling from height.
In farming over the last 10 years, there were 37 fatalities as a result of falling from height on the island of Ireland.
Common hazards include falls from ladders, unprotected roof edges, falling from or with stacked bales, and falling through fragile roof materials, particularly where aging structures are still in use.
Inspectors in the agriculture sector will focus on compliance with the legal requirements for working at height, including:
- Safe systems of work for any height-related activity,
- Use of proper equipment such as MEWPs or secured platforms,
- Ensuring safe stacking and handling of bales,
- Encouraging farmers to engage competent contractors for high-risk tasks,
- Promoting awareness around fragile roofs and proper construction appointments,
“Falls are entirely preventable, and everyone deserves to return home from work safely and unharmed,” said Adrienne Duff, Assistant Chief Executive, HSA.
“This campaign aims to raise awareness and drive home the message that taking shortcuts or carrying out work without due regard to the risks involved is not an option. Work must be planned and controls put in place to prevent a fall from height.”
Resources and practical guidance for safer work at height are available now at hsa.ie and hseni.gov.uk