Incident Summary:
Date: 2 March 2026
Location: Suffolk
Incident type: Asphyxiation - Grain silo
Fatal Notification 2026-04 - Asphyxiation (Grain Silo)
There have been many fatal incidents involving confined spaces such as grain silos on farms. The risks are well known. Grain silos can contain low oxygen levels or other harmful gases which lead to asphyxiation. There are also risks form free-flowing or collapsing grain.
Key Safety Messages:
Whenever possible, avoid working in a confined space, for example by carrying out the work from an outside location
When there is no alternative to working inside a confined space, get competent advice and where necessary use specialist contractors competent in confined space work
Any entry into a confined space such as a grain silo needs to be very carefully assessed and organised
Never enter a confined space such as a grain silo unless you are trained and competent to do so and have the correct equipment.
Guidance on working safely at height can be found in the HSE’s free leaflets: