Farmers 10x more likely to have accident at work

Published: 02/10/2013

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is encouraging workers from one of the UK’s most dangerous industries to attend a free event in an attempt to reduce the number of accidents at work.

The Farming and Agricultural industry has one of the highest rates of deaths and serious injury of any profession in Great Britain.

As a result the HSE has organised a free event at Pelaw Grange Greyhound Stadium in Chester-le-Street to help workers understand what the main hazards are within the industry and what health and safety provisions they should have in place to protect themselves and their employees.

Eileen Anderson is the HSE Principal Inspector:

“Many farmers are self-employed or run small family businesses so we want to make sure they aren’t putting themselves, their family members and their livelihoods at risk.

“It’s an alarming statistic that farmers are ten times more likely than most workers to be killed while at work – and on family farms that fatality is very likely to be a relative or close friend.

“Good health and safety management just means controlling risks that could lead to incidents that can cost time and money, even if no one is injured.

“The event offers simple tips that won’t cost a lot to put into practice and will also give attendees an opportunity to catch up with other local farmers and share industry knowledge.”

To secure a free place, email Neelam Donnelly at agriculture.shads@hse.gsi.giv.uk

Content correct at time of publication