HSE Reports High Fatality Rates for Children and Older Workers on British Farms

The following is an abridgement of an article originally published by the HSE Press Office.

Agricultural Fatality Statistics

Provisional data from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) for 2025/26 indicates 29 people were killed in the agriculture, forestry, and fishing sector in Great Britain. According to the HSE, this figure includes seven members of the public, three of whom were children. Workers over the age of 65 accounted for half of all worker fatalities during the period.

The HSE reported that over the past five years, the sector has averaged 28 work-related deaths annually, with nine children losing their lives on farms. The fatal injury rate per 100,000 workers in agriculture is five times higher than in construction and 21 times higher than the all-industry average. The primary causes of death include moving or overturning vehicles, falling objects, falls from height, animals, and machinery.

HSE Response

Wayne Owen, HSE inspector for agriculture, stated that the deaths are not inevitable accidents and result from risks that should be controlled.

"The continued loss of life, particularly the deaths of nine children on Britain’s farms over the last five years, is both tragic and unacceptable. These are not inevitable accidents; many result from risks that could and should be controlled. Children, particularly young children, should not be in the farm workplace — they should be in a safe, fenced area such as a farmhouse garden. We are also deeply concerned about the number of older workers losing their lives. Over 65s account for half of all worker fatalities. Meaningful and lasting improvement will only come through a significant cultural change across the industry — one that starts on every farm and with every farmer."