The Ulster Farmers’ Union attended the official launch of HSENI’s new Farm Wiser to Farm Longer campaign at Greenmount College, highlighting the importance of smarter, safer farming practices to help farmers remain active and farm safely for longer.
The campaign focuses on farmers aged 60 and over, who continue to play a vital role in the farming community but face increased risks due to age-related changes such as slower reaction times and reduced mobility. David Lowe from HSENI emphasised, ‘This is not about stopping farming, but recognising limitations, making small changes and reducing risk.”
Speakers at the event, including former UFU President Harry Sinclair from Farm Safety Partnership, stressed that small, practical improvements – such as safer livestock handling, better equipment and facilities, and increased awareness can make a significant difference. The campaign also aims to challenge attitudes towards risk, encouraging farmers to think differently and plan ahead.
With farming being highlighted as one of the most dangerous occupations across Europe and older farmers accounting for two thirds of deaths between 2014 and 2024, statistics like this have highlighted the drive behind this campaign.
Dr Rebecca Orr reminded farmers that annual eye check-ups and hearing tests can potentially save lives and that, for those aged 65 and over, these services are free of charge.
Dr Bryan Monson from HSENI, who closed the event, highlighted that for every fatality there are multiple serious incidents that often go unspoken and can significantly limit a farmer’s ability to continue farming. Farmers have commented, ‘I’d rather die in an incident than not farm at all’. By working together, raising awareness and investing in safety, the campaign aims to remind older farmers ,the backbone of the industry – to use their experience and adapt, not stop.
For more information please visit Farm longer | Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland, controlling risk together
