Farm deaths rise as April toll reaches four

Two more farming fatalities have taken April’s death toll to four, highlighting ongoing concerns about the poor safety record across the agricultural sector.

On 17 April 2026 in Charnwood, Leicestershire, a female member of the public was struck by a falling bale and later died in hospital.

The incident followed a separate tragedy in Shifnal, Shropshire, where a man died after becoming trapped beneath a fertiliser spreader while working on 12 April.

See also: Long hours and stress fuel farm safety crisis, survey shows

The Health and Safety Executive says incidents involving heavy machinery and moving loads remain among the leading causes of serious injury and death on farms, where high-risk environments and time pressures can increase the likelihood of accidents.

Despite accounting for just about 1% of the UK workforce, agriculture consistently records a disproportionate share of workplace fatalities, making it statistically the most dangerous industry to work in.

Jill Hewitt, chief executive of the National Association of Agricultural Contractors, said the industry must not become desensitised to such incidents.

“People need to be angry, upset and motivated to ensure this does not happen. Everyone has a role to play in improving our industry’s poor safety record – we cannot become immune to it,” said Ms Hewitt, who is also a member of the Farm Safety Partnership (Yellow Wellies).

Growing concerns

Her comments come amid growing concern over rising fatalities, with unofficial figures suggesting more than 30 people lost their lives in farming-related incidents during the 2025-26 financial year in Great Britain.

Industry leaders continue to urge farmers, contractors and workers to prioritise safety and take practical steps to reduce risks on farms.