Two farm deaths in a week raise safety concerns

A worker was killed on 12 August 2025 in a farm accident in County Durham after falling through a fragile roof light, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has confirmed.

It is the second fatal farm incident in just one week, prompting renewed concern over safety standards in the agricultural sector.

See also: Agriculture remains Britain’s most dangerous industry

Only days earlier, in Torfaen, south-east Wales, another farmworker died when his tractor overturned on a sloped field.

Both deaths highlight the ongoing dangers in farming.

Figures from the HSE show that agriculture, forestry and fishing continue to be the most hazardous industries in Great Britain.

Despite representing just 1% of the national workforce, the sector is responsible for 18.5% of all work-related deaths.

Between April 2024 and March 2025, 124 workers died in work-related incidents in Great Britain, including 23 in agriculture.

Although construction recorded more total fatalities at 35, farming remains the most dangerous industry statistically, with a fatal injury rate of eight deaths per 100,000 workers.

Falls from height were the leading cause of fatal injuries in 2024-25, followed by incidents involving moving machinery.

The HSE continues to urge those in the industry to take all necessary precautions, particularly when working at height.

“Plan any tasks involving work at height so that they are carried out safely, by competent people using the right equipment,” the agency advised.

It recommends avoiding work at height where possible, using appropriate access equipment such as staging, tower scaffolds or mobile elevating work platforms, and ensuring all workers are trained and competent.

“Never stand or walk on an unprotected fragile roof,” the HSE warned.