Safety campaign targets deadly falls in construction and farming

A campaign will see inspections taking place on construction sites and farms throughout October

The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) and the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) have launched a month-long, all-island inspection campaign to raise awareness of falls from height in construction and agriculture. 

Running throughout October, this joint initiative will see inspections taking place on construction sites and farms of all sizes, with the goal of reducing the number of serious injuries and fatalities linked to work at height. 

Construction inspections 

Inspectors in the construction sector will focus on compliance with the legal requirements for working at height, including: 

• adequate risk assessments and safety planning
• ensuring workers are trained and competent, with correct Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) / Construction Skills Register (CSR) certification
• safe use, erection, and inspection of scaffolding and ladders
• use of fall prevention systems (guardrails, harnesses, netting)
• ensuring that emergency response and rescue plans are in place 

Farm inspections 

Inspectors in the agriculture sector will focus on compliance with the legal requirements for working at height, including: 

• safe systems of work for any height-related activity
• use of proper equipment, such as mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) or secured platforms
• ensuring safe stacking and handling of bales
• encouraging farmers to engage competent contractors for high-risk tasks
• promoting awareness around fragile roofs and proper construction appointments 

Find out more about the Falls From Height Inspection Campaign. 

First published 9 October 2025