A man has died in an accident on a farm in Co. Tipperary, a spokesperson for the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has confirmed.

The accident is understood to have occurred on a farm near Clogheen earlier this afternoon.

An investigation into the accident has been launched by the HSA.

It is believed that the man was loading bales prior to the accident occurring. However, no confirmation has been given – as yet – by the HSA that this is a work-related incident. Inspectors are working to rule out the possibility of natural causes.

It’s thought the man was in his 60s.

On Sunday, January 21, a teenager died after falling from a tractor on a farm.

The accident took place near Boulaglass, Newtown, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary – which is located close to the border with Co. Clare – the spokesperson added.

Last year, out of a total of 47 workplace deaths, 24 farmers died in work-related accidents – with 14 being aged 65 or older.

Earlier this month, Teagasc and the HSA renewed a joint initiative promoting farm safety and health for a further three years.

The ‘Joint Initiative Agreement’ aims to provide research, training and advisory support to farmers on the topic of health and safety.

According to the HSA, the renewal of the joint initiative comes at a “challenging time for farming” – due to expansion in the sector and an ageing farmer population.