‘We can reduce the number of people killed and injured on farms’

The Farm Safety Partnerships (FSP) in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland urge farmers to remain vigilant to the dangers associated with working on farms.

The reminder comes at the start of Farm Safety Week, an annual event the Farm Safety Foundation leads.

Farm Safety Partnerships

The HSENI in 2020 recorded 4 fatalities on farms in Northern Ireland.

In the Republic of Ireland, the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) reported 17 deaths during the same period.

So far in 2021 and up to July 16th this year, HSENI has recorded 2 fatalities in Northern Ireland, and the HSA has recorded 3.

Harry Sinclair, chair of the FSP and HSENI board member, said: “Farm Safety Week offers us an opportunity not only to thank farmers everywhere for their efforts in meeting the challenges of the COVID pandemic, but also to reflect on the very real dangers they face every day in ensuring that we have the farm produce which can so easily be taken for granted.”                                                                         

“Farming can be a dangerous profession. I urge everyone involved in farm work to stop and ‘rethink risk’ before doing any job.”

“By working together and taking some simple precautions, we can reduce the number of people killed and injured on farms.”

The causes of major injuries and death on farms across the island of Ireland come from incidents involving:

• Machinery and equipment;
• Animals;
• Falls;
• Slurry.

Focus on high-risk areas in farming

Ciaran Roche, chair of the FSPAC and HSA board member, said: “During Farm Safety Week, I strongly encourage all farmers and farm families to take time to discuss and focus on the high-risk areas in farming, including; tractor and vehicle operation and livestock handling.”

“In particular, I would urge those over 65, who may now be less agile and slower to avoid injury, to consider their own health and safety.”

He stressed that tractors, quads and other farm vehicles can lead to deaths and life-changing injuries.

“Check and maintain all farm vehicles and restrict their use to competent operators only.”

“When dealing with livestock, work in a way that minimises physical contact. Always consider how you will protect yourself and others from an unexpected attack.”