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HomeBeefTaking risks when mixing slurry will put your life at risk
Catherina Cunnane
Catherina Cunnanehttps://www.thatsfarming.com/
Catherina Cunnane hails from a sixth-generation drystock and specialised pedigree suckler enterprise in Co. Mayo. She currently holds the positions of editor and general manager at That's Farming, having joined the firm during its start-up phase in 2015.
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Taking risks when mixing slurry will put your life at risk

In this article, the UFU’s William Irvine urges farmers to be cautious when mixing slurry in hot weather and issues safety messages.

With the weather onside, farmers are trying to get as much done as they can, and we are all guilty of letting our safety slip down the priority list when we are under pressure.

But it is vital that farmers get into the positive habit of taking time to think about what they are doing and to ensure they are doing it in the safest way possible before doing any task on-farm.

With one of the busiest periods in the farming calendar underway coupled with the extremely hot weather, we are urging farmers to take extra care when mixing slurry. This is one of the most hazardous tasks for a farmer.

Mixing slurry is an extremely dangerous job, but even more so when temperatures are high, like what we have been experiencing this past week.

Slurry gas contains poisonous hydrogen sulphide and releases very quickly in large volumes when mixing begins.

This is why slurry should only be mixed when doors and windows are open and when there are high winds so fumes can be dispersed in the air.

The first 30 minutes of mixing are the most dangerous for both the farmer and animals.

If animals are housed, move them from the shed before you begin mixing, and take yourself away from the shed as soon as it begins.

Put health and well-being first

If you have to go into the building during mixing, it is vital that farmers inform a family member or an adult when they are working with slurry to ensure help is close at hand if needed.

The UFU understands that with lengthy to-do lists and time constraints, farmers can begin work without thinking if they are doing so in the safest way, just to get the job done.

However, it is vital that farmers always put their well-being first and follow the advice of the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) when working with slurry.

I urge members not to take any risks when mixing slurry regardless of the reason because in doing so, you will be putting your life at risk.

The HSENI has advice on how to work in the safest way possible when mixing slurry. I encourage farmers to take advantage of these guidelines, which are available online.

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