The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) wants 2014 to be the safest ever year for farmers. Whilst attitudes towards farm safety are becoming more positive, more needs to be done to address a culture of risk-taking that exists within the farming community.
HSENI's Chief Executive, Keith Morrison, said, "Tragically, there were four confirmed farming fatalities during 2013 and while statistically this represents a welcome decrease from 12 deaths in both 2012 and 2011, these are four deaths too many, causing heartache and devastation for the immediate families and the wider farming community. It is clear more work needs to be done and while there is evidence of progress, there is no room for complacency. All of us involved in the farming industry need to increase our efforts so that for 2014, and beyond, safety will be the priority for Northern Ireland’s farmers."
The HSENI currently carry out farm safety visits, which focus on slurry, animals, falls from height and equipment (SAFE) - four of the main causes of fatalities on farms in Northern Ireland.
It is particularly important that farmer's stay safe at this time of year, especially as severe weather can present the need for urgent repairs but at the same time poses a safety risk. The HSENI are advising that all repairs should be carefully planned using properly constructed platforms rather than ladders. If ladders are to be used, farmers are advised that the ladders must be in good condition and they should make sure they are tied and footed to prevent slipping.
Mr Morrison added, "a follow up to the Farm Safety Partnership’s action plan will launch later this year to outline further key actions to reduce death and serious injury on our farms. In the meantime, programmes like HSENI’s farm safety visits will continue to play an important part in the drive to help farmers take effective steps to improve safety on their farms. I’d urge all farmers to take on board the important safety advice that is on offer."
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