Health and Safety Authority for Ireland release work related fatality figures for 2022

The HSA have released their figures relating to work related fatalities in 2022.  They have confirmed that there were 26 work related fatalities last year with the construction and Farming sectors accounting for almost three-quarters of the figures.

• The number of fatalities was down by over 30% from 2021 when 38 deaths were recorded;
• The age groups of 55 and upwards accounted for 69% of all fatalities;
• Falling from height (9 fatalities) and loss of control of a vehicle or its attachments (7 fatalities) were the leading causes of work-related fatalities in 2022;
• Farming saw 12 fatalities recorded in 2022 remaining the sector with the highest number of fatalities;
• The construction sector saw a reduction in fatalities with seven fatalities in 2022 compared to ten in 2021;

Neil Cahill, Senior Associate in Fieldfisher's Dublin office, commented on the statistics:

"It is pleasing to see the reduction in work related fatalities in Ireland. However, this should not breed complacency amongst employers as to the risks to their workforce.  The prudent employer should be taking a proactive approach to health and safety in the workplace focussing on ensuring that the safety of employees is driven from the top and is a priority in the business."

Andrew Sanderson, Head of Fieldfisher's UK and Ireland Health and Safety team, added:

"It is critical for organisations to take a proactive approach with regards to health and safety. Not only does this help ensure compliance but also demonstrates to customers and suppliers that they take health and safety practices extremely seriously."

Fieldfisher has a multi-jurisdictional team covering the United Kingdom and Ireland led by market-leading lawyers who can assist with advisory work on the preparation and review of health and safety policies and procedures including risk assessments with the aim of ensuring that health and safety systems are robust, comprehensive and as practical as possible.  They also are well equipped and experienced in acting following a health and safety incident, including and subsequent investigation, enforcement or prosecution.