Contractors need to “give some thought” to filling diesel tanks in the coming days as weather conditions are improving and the prices are “very competitive”, according to the FCI (Farm Contractors Ireland).
It reiterated its call for contractors and drivers to adhere to HSE guidelines on practical personal health and bio-security at all times.
In a statement, a spokesperson for the association said: “Weather conditions are improving at last, after a late spring. All contractors will be busy in the coming days and weeks getting fertiliser and slurry spread, as well as tilling and sowing crops.”
“FCI is advising that it is also prudent to ensure that, as a contractor, you have a sensible supply of machinery parts including filters, lubrication oils and wearing parts, now in stock in your yards because there is a lot of catching up to be done due to our late spring.”
Ordering and collecting machinery parts
“As experienced machinery service providers, you will be best placed to estimate these requirements, so take some time to make a list of your possible needs and order them now.”
The FCI is urging its members to follow HSE guidelines when ordering and collecting machinery parts, adding that this can be completed by telephone or email. “Parts orders can be delivered to your yard or collected from the supplier’s premises without direct human contact.”
Operating machinery
“When you are working alone in your tractors, please remember to bring adequate food and drink supplies with you as it will not be possible to enter customer homes.”
If in doubt about instructions make a telephone call back to the yard or to the customer, it advises. “Do not allow anyone to enter the tractor cab with you at any time.”
“Irrespective of the workload, please ensure that all drivers take at least two breaks from driving.”
“Spend some time out of the tractor cab to get some fresh air and some exercise while maintaining the required two metre social distance between you and anyone present in the field, especially during re-fueling machines.” the spokesperson concluded.
Image source: Farm Contractors Ireland Facebook
