Farm workers more than 20 times more likely to be killed on the job, according to health and safety figures
Worrying statistics from latest government report shows that the agriculture industry remains the deadliest of sectors to work in
Figures published by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) this week highlight the everyday dangers for those working in the agriculture, forestry and fishing industry and bring home the realities of how many families are affected.
Statistics show that despite accounting for just one percent of Great Britain’s workforce, the agriculture industry remains the deadliest as it accounts for 17% of work-related fatalities. The HSE reported 27 fatalities from 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024. The number of agricultural deaths increased from 21 to 23 over the past year with many of these being men over the age of 65. Four deaths were as a result of forestry and fishing.
Of every major industry sector, agriculture continues to hold an unfortunate record, the highest rate of fatal injury per 100,000 workers. This is more than 20 times higher than the industry average (8.23 fatal injuries per 100,000 workers compared to 0.4) – an unwanted accolade that the sector has held for the past five years.
Many of those working in this industry will be aware of the dangers that come with operating large, heavy and complex machinery, especially during harvest. However, the latest report emphasises that there is still a lot more to be done in order to make farming as safe as it can be for those who support our environment and put food on our plates.
CLA Deputy President, Gavin Lane, says:
“It is disappointing that farming continues to have the poorest safety record of any occupation – any death is one too many, and there is simply no excuse not to prioritise safety on the farm.
“There are many quick and easy steps farmers can implement to ensure good safety practices this harvest, including taking adequate breaks and checking equipment throughout the year.
“We have seen significant health and safety improvements in other sectors such as construction, and these practices are filtering down to farms; for example, more people are wearing high vis in farmyards.”
Even with the current challenge of making farms profitable, it is important for all of us to take care of our physical and mental wellbeing
If you wish to know more about keeping safe physically and mentally on-farm, members can reach out to their regional team and speak to a CLA Mental Health First Aider to find out more.
For further details follow the hashtag #FarmSafetyWeek and visit yellowwellies.org to get involved.