Machinery, working at height and construction on farms in the spotlight as Health and Safety Authority returns to the National Ploughing Championships
With older farmers disproportionately impacted by farm incidents, the Authority will also be stressing the importance of extra vigilance amongst farming veterans
As the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) prepares to welcome thousands of farmers to their farm safety exhibit at the National Ploughing Championships over the coming three days, 16 deaths* on farms so far this year, compared with 12 deaths in all of 2024, is a stark reminder of the need for farmers to prioritise health and safety on farms.
Over the last ten years, farm vehicles and machinery accounted for almost half (46%) of farm deaths and will be a key focus for the Authority this week.
In addition, working at height and construction work on farms, both key hazards on farms, will also feature strongly in the safety demos on display.
The HSA’s exhibit will also highlight the vital need to keep older farmers safe as they continue their important role in farming life. In the ten year period from 2015-2024, over half (53%) of fatal incidents on farms involved persons aged 65 or older. Of the 16 fatalities so far in 2025, 11 (69%) were aged 65 or older with two of those aged in their eighties.
Minister of State for Employment, Small Business and Retail, Alan Dillon TD, highlighted the serious risks faced by farmers on a daily basis and the potential impact on farmers and their families in the case of a serious incident.
“The tragic deaths of 16 people in farm incidents so far this year highlights the necessity for health and safety to be at the heart of everything farmers do. The risks farmers face every day, whether it’s working with machinery or the dangers of falling from a height, are serious and too often result in life-changing injuries or even death. However, with good planning, proper training and a commitment to safety, these incidents are preventable.”
Minister Dillon added, “Farmers must consider the consequences if the unthinkable happened – the consequences for themselves, their families and their livelihoods. I urge all farmers to take some time to visit the HSA exhibit this week and avail of the guidance and advice available to help ensure both themselves and their loved ones are kept safe.”
Mark Cullen, Interim Chief Executive of the HSA, said, “I am especially concerned about the dangers on farms posed by working at height, with machinery and during construction activity. Too many serious and fatal incidents occur when safety is not prioritised in these areas. Falls from ladders or roofs, incidents involving tractors or other powerful machines, and unsafe construction practices are preventable with the right precautions. Farmers must take the time to plan their work safely, use the proper equipment, and never take unnecessary risks. Protecting lives and livelihoods should always come first.”
While the risk is greater for older farmers, it can be effectively managed. By understanding and acknowledging changes to health and ability, older farmers can make informed choices about how they work and reduce their risk exposure.
Ger Hartnett, Senior Inspector with the HSA, said, “Older farmers play an invaluable role in the farming community, but the reality is that they are disproportionately at risk of serious injury. As farmers get older, their work can present new challenges. Reduced mobility or slower reaction times can make certain tasks, like climbing ladders or operating heavy machinery, far riskier. Older farmers need to recognise their physical limits, adapt their work practices and, where possible, seek help with higher-risk jobs.”
HSA inspectors and safety specialists will be on hand at their farm safety exhibit located at Block 3, Row 11, Stand No. 235, to answer any questions and offer advice to farmers.
For further information on the HSA, visit www.hsa.ie/farmsafety.
