The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has warned farmers to take extreme caution when assessing and carrying out repairs to sheds damaged by Storm Emma.

Many workers, particularly those involved in storm repair, construction, farming and transportation, will be facing increased hazards, it said.

After previous extreme weather events there were a number of workplace fatalities that occurred due to falls from height.

Roof repairs

Repair of roofs should only be done after snow and ice has been cleared and a risk assessment has been carried out.

All work at height must be properly planned and organised, the correct equipment should be used, and anyone working at height must be competent to do so, the HSA said.

Agriculture

Work activity in the agriculture sector will be severely hampered by the snow and ice. Farmers should take precautions and make their personal safety paramount. If it is necessary to be in fields, farmers should;

  • wear footwear with good grips.
  • wear a high-visibility jacket.
  • tell someone their estimated time of return.

    • Also it is important to have a fully charged mobile phone and a torch, even if just going out to feed animals in sheds or to carry out milking. Pathways to machinery and sheds should be cleared to reduce the risk of slips and falls.

    Slips, trips and falls

    The freezing and icy conditions will make even simple tasks, like navigating walkways and car parks hazardous. The likelihood of experiencing a slip, trip or fall in the workplace can double in icy conditions.

    “After such an extreme weather event many people will be facing conditions that they are not used to working in,” said Martin O’Halloran, HSA chief executive.

    “With the likelihood of heavy rain and flooding to come I would call on all employers and employees to put personal safety first at all times.”

    Read more

    What to do if your shed has been damaged in the storm

    Nine sheep rescued after being buried alive in snow in Wicklow