David Murchie, from H&H Insurance Brokers, on taking steps to making your smallholding a safer place
ACCIDENT STATISTICS
Q: How does agriculture compare with industry in terms of accidents?
A: Recent figures from the Health & Safety Executive showed that 23 people lost their lives while working in agriculture in the past year. While construction tops the list of work-related fatalities with 51, agriculture, forestry and fishing comes out as the worst industry in terms of the number of fatalities per 100,000 workers. The HSE also reported that the average rate of fatal injury is 21 times higher than other industries.
BE AWARE OF FARM VEHICLES
Q: What is the most common cause of accidents on farms?
A: According to the HSE, most serious incidents in agriculture involve farm vehicles. The majority of fatal accidents involving tractors or farm vehicles are due to them overturning when working on slopes, or people being hit by moving vehicles. HSE guidance includes planning ahead and assessing the potential risks involved before you start a job to help prevent accidents occurring.
TAKING SAFETY STEPS
Q: What can I do to help reduce the risk of accidents on my smallholding?
A: By its nature, farming is a hazardous occupation. Anyone involved in the industry works with potentially dangerous machinery, vehicles, chemicals, livestock and at height, often on a daily basis. But by following the right procedures and guidance, the risk of accidents or incidents can be removed or managed.
The HSE website (www.hse.gov.uk) is an excellent resource for finding out more about agricultural safety, and has practical health and safety advice on all aspects of agricultural work from handling livestock to operating machinery.
PROTECTING PEOPLE
Q: How can I ensure people helping out on my property are safe?
A: Like any business, farmers are employers and responsible for the training and the health and safety of their employees, and for the safety, maintenance and insurance of their equipment. They also need to consider potential risks to family members working on the farm; children living or visiting the farm; or members of the public who may come into contact with your property. Health and safety should be regarded as important as any other aspect of running a farm.
Accidents happen but taking steps to help prevent them will ensure that farms are a safer place for everyone.
For more information visit www.hhinsurancebrokers.co.uk or call 01228 406290.
David Murchie is head of agriculture at independent insurance broker, H&H Insurance Brokers. The firm specialises in agricultural and rural insurance and offers a Smallholder Protect policy aimed at farms of 50 acres or less.
See the latest safety advice from The Country Smallholder here.
