Two people in Donegal lost their lives in workplace fatalities last year, according to provisional data from the Health and Safety Authority.
2024 saw the lowest ever rate of work-related fatalities in Ireland.
A total of 33 people lost their lives in work-related incidents in 2024, a reduction of almost a quarter on 2023 fatalities. The construction sector, in particular, saw a significant decline from 10 fatalities in 2023 to 5 in 2024, a decline of 50%, while the agriculture sector saw a decline from 20 fatalities in 2023 to 12 last year, a decline of 40%.
Conor O’Brien, Chief Executive of the Health and Safety Authority, said, “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 is crucial to lowering the number of deaths further”.
Vehicle related incidents (10 fatalities), incidents involving heavy/falling objects (6 fatalities) and falling from height (5 fatalities) were the leading causes of work-related fatalities in 2024 accounting for 64% of all fatalities.
Two thirds of all fatalities (22) occurred to those aged 55 and over.
Of the 33 fatalities in 2024, the self-employed accounted for 18 (55%).
Commenting on the 2024 statistics, Mr. O’Brien said, “The reality is that behind these figures are people who have died, leaving behind heartbroken families, friends and communities. I offer my sincere condolences to all of those who have lost a loved one in a work-related incident last year and I urge employers to start planning now for 2025. 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”.
The Health and Safety Authority has free guidance and supports available across industry sectors in Ireland for employers and employees. Access free risk assessment tools at www.BeSMART.ie and free online training at www.hsalearning.ie. For more information visit www.HSA.ie.
