FRS Training highlights tractor safety risks ahead of Tractor Safety Week

As part of Tractor Safety Week 2026, FRS Training is calling on all farmers to reassess safety practices around machinery.

FRS Training is urging farmers to take extra care around machinery. Also to place a renewed focus on tractor safety ahead of Tractor Safety Week, warning that tractors and farm vehicles remain the leading cause of fatalities on Irish farms.

HSA Figures

The latest figures from the Health & Safety Authority show that farm deaths almost doubled in 2025 compared to the previous year, with 23 fatalities recorded on farms last year. FRS Training said many farm incidents continue to occur during routine work, often linked to time pressure, fatigue and avoidable risk-taking.

“Every accident and death on the farm is a tragedy,” said Kevin O’Connor of FRS Training. “It has a massive effect on the immediate family. Also the farming community as a whole. Farmers need to be more aware of the dangers that surround them during their working day.”

“In my experience while delivering farm safety courses, very few farmers when asked were able to point out the main cause of deaths on farms. When asked during farm safety courses about taking risks on the farm, almost all farmers attending admitted to taking more than one risk. The main reason for this was due to working alone and under time constraints. We urgently need to change this culture urgently,” O’Connor added.

Tractor Safety Week

As part of Tractor Safety Week 2026, FRS Training is highlighting key areas where improved practices could reduce incidents. This includes tractor maintenance, safe operation, visibility awareness, and better management of high-risk situations on farms.

Farmers are being advised to carry out regular checks on tyres, brakes, lights, fluids and hydraulics. Do this alongside scheduled servicing in line with manufacturer guidance. Safe operating practices such as proper training, use of seatbelts, and safe stop procedures. Keeping cabs free from hazards are also being emphasised.

O’Connor said visibility and blind spots remain a significant concern on tractors. Particularly when reversing or working with trailers, with farmers urged to stop and physically check surroundings where necessary.

FRS Training also warns that older farmers, young children and fatigue continue to be major contributing risk factors around tractors. With the average age of Irish farmers close to 60, issues such as health, mobility and working alone can increase risk.

Fatigue, long working hours and pressure during peak farming periods are also highlighted as ongoing challenges affecting judgement and reaction times.

Expert Advice

FRS Training says improved awareness, consistent safe behaviour and better planning are essential to reducing farm accidents and fatalities across the sector.

“As part of this year’s Tractor Safety Week campaign, I urge all farmers to stop and think about the risks for operating tractors and other farm machinery. Think about what new safety protocols they can introduce to mitigate risks around machinery. Tractors and farm vehicles continue to be the leading cause of fatalities on Irish farms. We urgently need a new approach to risk assessment and safety protocols,” said O’Connor.

“Taking simple, practical steps can make a significant difference to avoid risks. Timely maintenance of tractors and farm vehicles significantly reduces the likelihood of accidents. It is also important for operators to wear proper protective clothing. For example, safety boots, overalls, work gloves and hearing protection.”