SERIOUS injuries in workplace accidents fell by more than a quarter last year.
Figures from the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) show there were 325 accidents which caused 'major injuries' compared to 453 the previous year.
However, there was a small increase in fatal accidents - rising to 12 from 11 in 2017/18.
Seven people died in agricultural accidents, three in construction, one in manufacturing and one in the local authority sector.
During 2018/19, HSENI carried out 5,522 inspections of workplaces and served 222 enforcement notices where poor practice was found.
Chairman Derek Martin said he was "encouraged" that the number of major injuries had dropped as these "often have devastating life-changing outcomes for workers".
"The number of workplace deaths is disappointing," he said.
"We will continue to collaborate with our partners and industry bodies to ensure the focus remains on ensuring the safety and health of workers."
