Agriculture accounts for 40% of deaths; three work-related fatalities recorded in Co. Tipperary.
Provisional figures published by the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) show 58 people died in work-related incidents during 2025, a 61% increase on the 36 deaths recorded in 2024.
The HSA said the work-related fatality rate rose to 2.1 per 100,000 workers in 2025, up from 1.3 in 2024, while noting the long-term trend remains downward.
Sector breakdown.
The agriculture sector recorded 23 fatalities, accounting for 40% of all work-related deaths in 2025, from a sector employing approximately 4% of the workforce. Construction recorded 10 fatalities (up from five in 2024), while manufacturing recorded 5 fatalities (up from none in 2024).
Leading causes.
The leading causes of workplace fatalities in 2025, included incidents involving heavy loads/falling objects, machinery or vehicles, and falls from heights.
Older and self-employed workers disproportionately affected.
Of the 58 deaths recorded, 19 victims (33%) were aged 65 or over, with the oldest aged 88.
Self-employed workers accounted for 23 deaths (40%), underlining the heightened risks faced by people working alone or without wider organisational supports.
County figures – Ref: Co. Tipperary.
The HSA’s provisional county breakdown shows three work-related fatalities in Co Tipperary during 2025.
Commenting on the figures, HSA Chief Executive Mr Mark Cullen said the increase is “deeply concerning” and urged employers and workers to remain vigilant and avoid complacency regarding safety.
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