The Construction Safety Partnership Advisory Committee (CSPAC), an advisory committee to the Board of the Health and Safety Authority (HSA), has published its 2025 – 2027 Action Plan, developed to enhance occupational safety and health standards for those working in the construction sector.

The new three year Action Plan outlines a comprehensive set of goals and initiatives to tackle the most pressing occupational safety and health risks in the sector.  It builds upon previous successes that have already led to a 42% reduction in construction fatalities over the time-frame covered by the last CSPAC plan compared to the previous three years, and it recognises the urgent need to address the persistent rate of life-altering injuries.

Launching the Action Plan today, Frank Kelly, Co-Chairperson of the CSPAC, said, “The strength of this plan lies in its collaborative approach.  By learning from each other, we can standardise what works, innovate where needed, and ultimately protect the lives and livelihoods of thousands of construction workers across Ireland.  

He added, “As the industry is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, it is vital to proactively address the risks and hazards associated with construction activity, with a focus on new entrants, returning workers, and small and self-employed contractors.”

Mark Cullen, Interim HSA Chief Executive Officer, commented, “While there have been significant improvements in recent years, 48 people lost their lives in work-related incidents in the sector in the five year period to the end of 2024.  So there is still clearly a lot to achieve.  This plan represents our collective resolve to continue driving down fatalities and injuries through practical, data-driven, and inclusive initiatives.”

The CSPAC, made up of representatives from government, trade unions, employers, and industry experts, will lead implementation through a series of focused Objective Working Groups.  These groups will identify sector-specific issues, develop evidence-based solutions, and ensure that findings and resources are accessible and effectively promoted.

Key priorities in the Action Plan include:

• Promoting best practices to mitigate risks from both traditional hazards (e.g. machinery) and emerging threats (e.g. hazardous substances).
• Enhancing the role and effectiveness of safety representatives through greater consultation and collaboration on sites.
• Providing targeted resources and practical tools to assist small contractors, new entrants, and self-employed workers.
• Sharing insights on technological advancements and standardising safety practices across the sector.

The Health and Safety Authority has a wide range of online tools, courses and supports for the construction sector, including HSALearning.ie and our free online safety management tool BeSMART.ie. A range of publications geared to the needs of the construction sector are available here. 

The Construction Safety Partnership Action Plan 2025–2027 is now available on the HSA website at this link. 

HSA