As part of the 2020-2023 Farm Safety Action Plan, the Farm Safety Partnership will concentrate on four specific 'Farm Safe Essentials', aimed to reduce the number of serious and fatal incidents relating to frequently recurring causes.
The Ulster Farmers’ Union encourage those working on farms to follow these simple precautions to help prevent injury and death on the farm.
#1 CHECK YOUR BRAKES – No brakes, no chance
Faulty brakes or not applying them properly are still killing people on our farms. A regular safety check and good maintenance will keep everyone safe.
#2 PLAN SAFE SPACES – Don't be caught out by a bull
Attacks by bulls are still one of the most common causes of deaths on farms. Always ensure you plan a safe space.
#3 GIVE SLURRY SPACE – Slurry gas: One breath can kill
Follow the slurry code and stay out of the shed for AT LEAST 30 MINUTES after mixing starts.
#4 STAY OFF ROOFS – Don't let roofs be your downfall
Falls from height and through fragile roofs continue to kill and seriously injure our farmers. Always ensure you have properly trained people and the right equipment for carrying out roof work on the farm.
#5 QUADS NEED CAUTION – Misuse of quads can kill
When using an All-Terrain vehicle or quad for farm work you must be adequately trained. It is vital that anyone using a quad is within the manufacturers recommended age range, the minimum age for use of a farm type quad is usually 16 years old. If driving a quad on the public road you must have a driving licence, appropriate insurance and road tax and the quad must be in a roadworthy condition.
For more information on farm safe essentials, click here.
