Falls from height remain one of the most serious and persistent workplace risks in Ireland. Despite decades of regulation and guidance around working at height safety, these incidents continue to cause fatalities and life-changing injuries each year.
In response, the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has launched targeted inspection campaigns focused on working-at-height risks, particularly in sectors such as construction and agriculture. These initiatives highlight a clear message for employers: preventing falls from height remains a critical safety priority.
Ireland at a glance
- Falls from height accounted for approximately 60% of construction fatalities in Ireland between 2014 and 2023.¹
- Seven of the ten construction deaths recorded in 2023 involved falls from height, reinforcing the need for continued vigilance.¹
- Across the island of Ireland between 2015 and 2024, 70 construction workers and 37 farmers lost their lives due to falls from height.²
Why the HSA is focusing on working at height
Many falls from height occur during routine tasks such as roof repairs, ladder work, maintenance activities, or short-duration jobs where risks may be underestimated.
These tasks may seem straightforward, but even minor lapses in planning or supervision can lead to serious incidents. As a result, the HSA continues to prioritise inspections and awareness campaigns to target working-at-height practices across high-risk sectors.
For employers, this means working-at-height risks are likely to receive increased regulatory attention, and organisations should ensure their safety systems are robust and up to date.
Common causes of falls from height
Despite clear guidance, many incidents arise from preventable factors, including:
- Working from ladders or fragile surfaces
- Inadequate edge protection on roofs or elevated platforms
- Improperly erected scaffolding
- Lack of risk assessment and planning
- Insufficient training or supervision
In many cases, incidents occur when workers attempt to complete tasks quickly without appropriate safety controls in place.
Employer responsibilities under Irish safety law
Employers have clear legal duties to manage the risks associated with working at height.
Under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, employers must, so far as reasonably practicable, ensure the safety, health and welfare of employees.
This obligation is reinforced by the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007, which include specific requirements for working at height.
Key principles include:
- Avoiding work at height where possible
- Using suitable equipment to prevent falls
- Minimising fall distance and consequences
- Ensuring workers are properly trained and supervised
Failure to meet these responsibilities can result in enforcement action, fines, or prosecution.
By reviewing working-at-height practices and strengthening safety management systems, organisations can better protect their workforce and reduce the risk of serious incidents.
Practical steps employers can take now
For many organisations, the HSA campaign serves as a reminder to review existing safety arrangements.
Employers should consider whether they have:
Updated risk assessments
Working at height activities should be clearly identified and assessed, with appropriate control measures in place.
Appropriate access equipment
Guardrails, scaffolding, mobile elevated work platforms and fall protection systems should be used where necessary.
Competent workers and supervision
Employees involved in working at height must receive suitable training and guidance.
Clear planning and safe systems of work
Tasks should be planned carefully, particularly where weather conditions or site conditions could increase risk.
Regular equipment inspection and maintenance
Access equipment and fall protection systems should be inspected and maintained regularly.
“Falls from height remain one of the most preventable causes of serious workplace injury. Organisations that prioritise risk assessment, training and planning are far better positioned to protect their people and maintain safe working environments.”
— Dr Paul Cummins, CEO, SeaChange Ltd
How SeaChange can support organisations
Managing workplace safety effectively requires more than compliance—it requires a proactive approach to identifying and controlling risks.
Through its health and safety consultancy services, SeaChange Ltd works with organisations to strengthen safety systems and ensure regulatory compliance.
This includes supporting businesses with:
- Working at height risk assessments
- Development of safe systems of work
- Work at height training and awareness programmes
- Safety audits and compliance reviews
- Ongoing health and safety advisory support
References
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Health and Safety Authority, Inspection campaign addressing working at height risks in construction
- Health and Safety Authority, All-Island safety campaign targeting deadly falls in construction and farming
