NEW research has revealed a ‘notable’ decrease in fatalities involving powered access equipment, despite only a slight reduction in overall reported incidents.
The findings are revealed in IPAF’s Global Safety Report 2025, based on analysis of incidents submitted through its global Accident Reporting Portal.
The IPAF Global Safety Report 2025 examines accident data spanning 2015 to 2024, with a focus on the most recent year-on-year trends. This year’s report shows that in 2024, there were 15% less fatal and major incidents reported, with 170 incident reports made compared to 201 reports in 2023.
There were 100 fatalities reported, down from 135 in 2023 – marking a 26% decrease. A total of 211 people were involved in incidents (12% less than in 2023), and reports came from 26 countries (the same as in 2024).
In terms of incidents resulting in deaths or major injury, overturns was the top cause of accidents in 2024, followed by entrapment and falls from the platform. Most incidents occurred on construction sites (37%), followed by the arboriculture (13%) and electrical sectors (13%). The top MEWP categories involved were 1b machines (34%), followed by 3a (26%) and 3b machines (26%).
Other key statistics from the report include:
- A 75% increase in entrapment reports and 62% increase in entrapment fatalities from 2023 to 2024.
- A 56% reduction in fatalities from overturns.
- A 50% decrease in incident reports of people being hit by a falling object but a 75% increase in fatalities.
Brian Parker, head of safety & technical at IPAF, said, “The 26% reduction in fatalities is a positive step forward, but we must remain focused on the bigger picture. Every incident report reminds us that there is still work to do.
“While it’s encouraging to see improvements, especially in overturn-related fatalities, the sharp rise in entrapment fatalities is a clear signal that we must continue driving education, vigilance and adherence to safe working practices across all sectors. This report equips us with the critical insights needed to target our safety efforts where they are most needed.”
Alana Paterson, chair of the IPAF International Safety Committee and head of health, safety & environment at Taylor Woodrow, added, “Powered access continues to be one of the safest and most efficient methods for working at height. However, we still see serious, and at times, tragic incidents around the world.
“These serve as a stark reminder of why the work of IPAF and its committees is so vital. The data collected through the IPAF Accident Reporting Portal not only informs this report but also guides the focus of our collective efforts, whether that’s developing guidance documents, toolbox talks, technical innovations, hire standards, or more.
“I encourage everyone working in this sector to report any accidents involving powered access. Accurate reporting helps ensure the data reflects reality and supports better safety for all.”
