UFU champions farm safety across Northern Ireland this Farm Safety Week
The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) is joining forces with others across the industry this Farm Safety Week to encourage NI farming communities to make safer choices on farms.
Now in its 14th year, the week-long initiative, led by Yellow Wellies, is shining a spotlight on the life-changing impact of serious injuries – an issue that is often overlooked. The campaign comes as farming continues to have the poorest safety record of any occupation across the UK and Ireland.
UFU deputy president Glenn Cuddy said, “We’re proud to stand alongside the industry in supporting Farm Safety Week, but raising awareness on its own isn’t enough. Every farmer has a role to play in making safer decisions every day.
“Life on the farm is demanding. There’s always another job waiting, and weather, workloads and financial pressures can make it tempting to push on. But no task is so urgent that it’s worth risking your safety. Taking a few moments to assess the job, use the right equipment and avoid unnecessary risks could make all the difference.
“Whether you’re a young farmer beginning your career or someone with decades of experience, we all have a part to play in making sure everyone gets home safely at the end of the day.”
Stephanie Berkeley, Farm Safety Foundation Manager added, “This campaign is about more than statistics – it’s about people and helping them understand the real human impact of farm accidents and encouraging safer behaviours so our farms become safer places for everyone who lives, works or visits them.”
For more information on ‘Farm Safety Week’ visit www.yellowwellies.org or visit hseni.gov.uk.
