The UK farming industry has been shaken once again following the death of a 34-year-old man in a tragic telehandler incident in Pembrokeshire. The accident at work, which occurred on Friday 12 September at a property in the Llangwm area near Haverfordwest, has become the eighteenth farm-related fatality recorded since the beginning of the financial year on 1 April 2025.
Reports indicate that the man was being lifted in the bucket of a telescopic handler (telehandler) when he sustained serious injuries. He was taken to hospital but later died. Dyfed-Powys Police have confirmed that a 60-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter and released under investigation. A second man, aged 64, has also been voluntarily interviewed as part of the inquiry. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and the coroner have been notified, with investigations ongoing.
This latest tragedy has reignited concern over safety practices in farming, particularly around working at height and machinery use. Jill Hewitt, chief executive of the National Association of Agricultural Contractors (NAAC) and a board member of the Farm Safety Partnership, expressed her distress, stating the news had “sickened [her] to the core.” She highlighted that farming is currently experiencing an average of three deaths a month – a statistic that underscores the urgent need for improved safety measures.
Ms Hewitt emphasised: “We cannot be complacent and must not accept these tragedies as part of the job.” She noted that pressures such as long working hours, unpredictable seasonal weather conditions, and financial challenges may play a role in unsafe practices, but warned these should never excuse preventable accidents. “I make no apologies for asking – begging – everyone to think about safety, talk about safety and not take any unnecessary risks,” she said.
A wider pattern of incidents
The Pembrokeshire fatality follows two recent deaths earlier this month – one in Stratford-on-Avon and another in Wiltshire – both linked to machinery and both currently being investigated by the HSE. The string of incidents paints a concerning picture of an industry where risks remain high despite repeated calls for vigilance amongst farm workers and employers.
Ms Hewitt called for renewed determination across the sector to prevent further loss of life. “Safety doesn’t need to be costly or onerous, but it does need to be thought about, discussed and actioned. Our industry is already struggling without needless loss of life,” she said.
Campaigns to improve safety culture
In an attempt to raise awareness, the NAAC continues to push its “I am vital to UK agriculture – Stay Safe!” campaign. The initiative offers free safety stickers designed to act as visible reminders on farms. While simple, the stickers serve as conversation starters around safe working practices. “Stickers can’t save lives, but they can prompt discussion,” Ms Hewitt added.
With fatalities mounting, industry leaders are urging farmers, contractors, and workers to take proactive steps in safeguarding themselves to tackle workplace injuries. The message is clear: prevention, vigilance, and open discussion about safety are vital if further lives are to be spared.
The farming community is central to the UK’s economy and food security, but without a renewed focus on safety, the toll of preventable accidents will continue to weigh heavily on families, communities, and the industry at large.
