When doing audits there are issues which we come across on a regular basis.

Plugs and light switches.

These must have the appropriate waterproof rating and be in good condition. A particular danger would be plugs and switches exposed to weather or where water comes in via a leak.

Overhead power lines

If machinery passes underneath, these should be highlighted with bunting and goalposts to allow safe passage. No materials or equipment should be stored underneath them – electricity can ‘jump’.

Children

We advise clients to speak to their children about the dangers of being unsupervised on the farm and about how to get the attention of their father/mother/sibling/farm worker, when required. No matter how often a child is on the farm, they must always be supervised.

Machinery

I visited a farm recently in the Midlands where the farmer has a number of tractors and the usual farm equipment. What concerned me was the lack of maintenance. Farmers should have an ongoing maintenance programme instead of waiting until something goes wrong. We have seen a huge improvement in relation to pto guarding. Don’t underestimate its importance. Many livestock farms have the ‘little’ tractor in the yard for occasional work. We look to see if roll over protection is in place.

Heights

Accidents from falls can lead to long-term serious injuries and death. When working on roofs, ensure fall protection is in place. The use of ladders is a thorny issue – guidance is provided on the HSA website: ensure they are used for only jobs of short duration ie, less than 30 minutes, only where no other method can be used; make sure they are secured into place; maintain three points of contact with the ladder – two hands and one foot or one hand and two feet; never overreach – ensure your waist goes no higher than the top rung and never straddle the stepladder.

Silage pits

Walls where no guard rails are fitted can be lethal. We would encourage all farmers to look closely at their walls to ensure adequate protection is in place.

Slurry tanks

Before agitating the job should be planned thoroughly. Ensure that the shed is empty, that neither you or anyone else has to enter the building. Signage should be erected, agitation/emptying points must be guarded, slurry tanks must be properly fenced off and the fence maintained in good order.

Falling items

Farmers will soon begin taking down round bales. Always look up to see what you are taking down – if the stack does not appear secure, stay clear until it is safely taken down and ensure nobody else walks into the area.

Slips, trips and falls

Have sufficient lighting in place for winter. Keep ground clear in areas where you walk. This is relevant to those going out at night to look at cows.

Employees

Be aware of the requirement under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 (section 8) to provide training to staff. If a claim arises, training will be the first thing looked at. All training must be documented.

Safety documentation

The importance of this cannot be overemphasised. It is a legal requirement. But it can also highlight to you, your family, and any farm worker the dangers that can be present on the farm.