Safety chiefs aim to reduce farm deaths and injuries

The Health and Safety Executive has organised the event on October 14, with farmers themselves delivering the advice.

More than 200 have signed up for either the morning or afternoon sessions held in the stableyard at the Hall, but a few places are still available.

Between 40 and 50 people are killed on farms every year, a higher number than in the construction industry.

HSE Inspector Tim Johnson, who leading the event, said: “Many farmers are self-employed or run small businesses so we want to make sure they’re not putting themselves, family and visitors, as well as their livelihoods, at risk with poor health and safety.

“We have farmers taking sessions and they are familiar with the issues and challenges facing their colleagues today.

“We’ll be offering expert, simple tips targeted at key risks that won’t cost a lot to put into practice and could even help to boost productivity.

“The events are also an opportunity to catch up with other local farmers and share industry knowledge.

“It’s an alarming statistic that farmers are ten times more likely than most workers to be killed while at work. I’d encourage them to give up half a day of their time to come along to the event.”

There will be practical demonstrations focussing on workplace transport, manual handling, roof work and ladders, as well as safe maintenance of machinery, chemicals and the use of quad bikes.

Farmers can arrange to attend the morning or afternoon events on 14 October by emailing [email protected].

People in the sector can also sign up for HSE’s e-bulletin by going to www.hse.gov.uk/agriculture/ebulletins.htm

Nearly 8,000 places are being made available at Safety and Health Awareness Days nationally in a bid to reduce deaths and injuries on the farm.