Thorough planning when making decisions about the type of fertiliser to use, the application rate and timing of application is very important. Planning how fertiliser will be spread in a safe way must also be a high priority.

Health and Safety Authority (HSA) data tells us that, sadly, over the past 10 years accidents related to tractors, vehicles and machinery accounted for 50% of farm fatalities. Spreading fertiliser is highly mechanised and can be a high-risk activity.

Time

Firstly, think about how busy you will be and if a contractor could help spread some or all of the fertiliser for you. It is also important to consider in what form the fertiliser will be delivered. The bulk or big-bag option minimises the need for manual lifting if you have appropriate equipment.

Maintenance

If you are carrying out the job yourself, it is important to carry out a thorough check of your fertiliser spreader. Follow the operator’s manual and make sure the PTO shaft, PTO cover, safety chains and O guard are in good condition. Check for cracks, rust, loose components and the general structural integrity of the machine. Make sure oils are checked and the machine is fully greased.

Mounting a spreader

When attaching a fertiliser spreader to a tractor’s three-point linkage, it is very important to be aware of the places where a body part could get crushed. HSA data shows that 54% of the fatal accidents with tractors and farm vehicles were due to crush injuries. The area between the fertiliser spreader and the tractor is high-risk for crush injuries. The fertiliser spreader should be positioned on a stable base, with quick-attach mechanisms used where present and the tractor handbrake should be engaged before leaving the cab. Tractor controls should only be used when people are known to be safely outside crush zones.

Protection

Take steps to avoid direct contact of fertiliser products with the skin and eyes.

The corrosive nature of fertiliser can irritate skin, especially where there are cuts or grazes. Always use protective gloves.

It is also good practice to wear a dust mask as the dust from fertilisers can also be a problem.

Sloping ground

Tractors can overturn when spreading fertiliser on sloping ground. Driver competence and experience is very important. Drivers should make sure that they are familiar with the slope by walking it before driving it.

Avoid dangerously steep slopes and make sure that the tractor is in good mechanical condition.

Capital allowances for farm safety equipment

When purchasing eligible farm safety equipment, farmers can claim an accelerated capital allowances of 50% per annum over two years. This eligible equipment includes systems to enable the hitching of implements to an agricultural tractor three-point linkage without having to descend from the tractor, as well as equipment to assist farmers with disabilities. Lifting systems for bags of fertiliser or seed of 500kg or greater are also included. Contact your agricultural adviser for more information.