News & Info
Farmers’ responsibilities around livestock to prevent accidents
10th November, 2025
Farmers in Ireland have a duty of care to protect workers, visitors, and the public from injury caused by livestock.
Farming is one of Ireland’s most important industries. However, every year, serious injuries and fatalities occur on farms, many involving livestock.
According to research from the Injuries Resolution Board (IRB), over 700 farm accident claims were submitted to the IRB between 2019 and 2024.
Almost a fifth of these accidents were animal-related. Cattle were the cause of 42% of injuries, followed by horses (33%), dogs (16%) and sheep (4%).
Common livestock-related accidents include:
- Being kicked or trampled by cattle or horses
- Crush injuries caused by handling or penning livestock
- Injuries during calving or lambing
- Injuries to members of the public caused by livestock escaping onto roads or footpaths
Farmers have a duty of care to ensure that employees, visitors and members of the public are kept safe from the farm’s animals.
What is a duty of care?
Under Irish law, a duty of care is the legal responsibility to take reasonable care when conducting any acts that may endanger others. For farmers, this means maintaining a safe working environment, and ensuring livestock are managed and contained in a way that minimises the risk of injury.
Steps farmers should take to prevent injury
Farmers can reduce the risk of livestock-related injuries by following good safety practices and Health and Safety Authority (HSA) guidelines. These include:
- Maintaining secure fencing and gates to prevent animals from escaping.
- Using safe handling facilities, such as properly maintained crushes and pens.
- Never working alone when dealing with unpredictable or aggressive animals.
- Providing adequate training and supervision for employees and helpers.
- Displaying warning signs where livestock may be present near public areas or rights of way.
- Assessing animal temperament and removing aggressive animals from herds
You can find more tips for safe management of livestock on Livestock – Health and Safety Authority.
What to do if you are injured by livestock
If you have been injured by livestock, whether as a worker, visitor, or member of the public, you may be entitled to make a personal injury claim for compensation. It’s important to:
- Seek medical attention immediately for your injuries. Your health is number one priority.
- Formally report the incident to the farmer or person responsible for the animals, to ensure there is a clear record of the incident. Livestock in Ireland are usually traceable, so if the person responsible is unknown, you can request ID trace assistance from the Gardaí, Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine regional office, or the local authority.
- Gather evidence, such as photos, witness details, and medical reports.
- Speak to a solicitor experienced in farm accident claims.
Our team can advise you on your legal rights and guide you through the claims process to get the best outcome for you, while you focus on your recovery.
To discuss your situation in confidence, contact our team today on (01) 649 9900 or email ask@traceysolicitors.ie. We will be happy to help.
Disclaimer: This article has been prepared by Tracey Solicitors LLP for general guidance only and should not be regarded as a substitute for professional advice.
We draw on our 35 years of experience in personal injury law to provide you with expert advice and legal services. We have dealt with thousands of different cases over the years and are proud of our record of client care and success to date.