News & Info

The campaign focuses on working at height in agricultural settings.

According to HSA research, over the last 10 years, there were 98 fatalities as a result of falls from height in Irish workplaces. 20 of these were on Irish farms.

The main hazards when working at height are falls from ladders, unprotected edges of roofs or other structures, as well as falls through fragile roof materials.

Farmers will be advised that, if they are planning to conduct work on a roof, they will need to assess the roof to see if it could be easily broken or shattered, and whether it is able to support the weight of a person.

During their farm visits, HSA inspectors will be advising farmers to:

• carry out risk assessments in advance of any work from height, and
• to plan a safe system of work and the use of appropriate machinery such as a MEWP (Mobile Elevated Work Platform) or putting in place adequate working platform(s), adequate edge protection and other measures to prevent falls from height.

They will also be advised on safety requirements for third parties who are carrying out construction work on the farm.

In a HSA press release about the campaign, Darren Arkins, Programme Manager, HSA, said farmers need to be aware of the risks of working at height and plan ahead before undertaking the work:

“A fall from a height can lead to a very serious life changing injury or even death. Taking shortcuts or carrying out work without due regard to the risks involved is not an option for any person working at height on a farm. Unfortunately, there have been 20 fatalities in the last 10 years relating to working at height on farms. These can all be prevented by planning the work and taking the right precautions.”

If you have been injured in a fall from height, through no fault of your own, contact us for a confidential discussion. Our specialist accident at work solicitors will be able to advise you on whether it is possible to make a personal injuries claim.