The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) is urging outdoor workers to take extra precautions following a significant increase in work-related fatalities in recent weeks.

The latest figures from the HSA show a concerning rise in fatalities, particularly among the self-employed and farmers.

Key causes of serious outdoor incidents include working at height and the use of quad bikes, both of which continue to present serious risks when proper safety measures are not followed.

The HSA was notified of four fatal incidents in the past month, three of which were associated with quad bike use.

Of nine confirmed work-related fatalities so far this year, six were self-employed, with five of those associated with the agriculture, forestry and fishing sectors.

Working at height, such as on ladders, roofs, or unstable structures, continues to be a leading cause of fatal accidents.

Similarly, quad bike use - often on uneven or sloped terrain - has resulted in numerous serious and fatal injuries, particularly when the wearing of helmets and safety training are neglected, the HSA said.

The HSA has reiterated the importance of safety training, proper equipment use and maintenance, and the need for both employers and self-employed workers to carry out risk assessments before undertaking any potentially hazardous outdoor task.

Commenting on the concerning rise in reported incidents, Ger Hartnett, senior agricultural inspector with the HSA, said: "We are deeply concerned by the recent sharp rise in fatalities, especially among self-employed outdoor workers and farmers.

"We are calling on farmers and all those working outdoors to take a step back, assess the risks, and prioritise safety at every stage of the job. No job is important enough to risk your life," Hartnett added.

"We urge everyone, regardless of how routine a task may seem, to follow safety guidelines, wear appropriate protective gear, and use equipment correctly," he added.

The HSA inspector commented: "We want to see everyone come home safely at the end of the day. Safety isn't an optional added step, it must be an integral part of the job."