26/05/2003

Drowning incidents highlight need for water safety says HSA

The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has called for greater awareness of the dangers of working near water to mark today's start of National Water Safety Awareness Week.

The HSA revealed that 13 people, including five children under the age of 11, have drowned in work-related accidents since January 2001.

The authority has also stressed the need for caution in the agriculture and fishing industries - the two main sectors where drownings occur most frequently.

Since January 2001, six people have died by drowning in slurry pits on farms. A further four lives have been lost at sea in the fishing industry over the same period.

Pat O'Halloran, Senior Inspector with the HSA, said: "In particular, the safe fencing of slurry pits and covering of water tanks would significantly reduce the risk to small children on the farm."

Mr O'Halloran further urged those involved in the fishing industry to wear a lifejacket while at work and to get the right safety training.

(GMcG)

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