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Are the inspections more ‘awareness’ raising or enforceable?
Both. We want to raise awareness of the major risks on the farm, but if our inspectors see something that poses a clear and present danger, they can deliver a prohibition notice and work would stop until that issue is fixed.
What are the objectives of the inspections this week?
Twofold – to highlight the immediate risks and, if possible, get them fixed there and then, and secondly, to sow the seed on operating the farm in a safer manner in the long-term.
Has COVID-19 impacted on the number of accidents and deaths?
Yes, without a doubt there has been an impact. I have been talking to a number of paramedics and accident and emergency specialists over the last few weeks, and all report an increase in the number of accidents and serious injuries on farms. It stands to reason, as there are a lot more people on farms this year.
Have you an example of dangers that need to be sorted out?
There are numerous examples I could give, but some of the simple examples are preventable. For instance, there have been a number of occasions where farmers have been moving round bales or bagged silage and things have gone horribly wrong, resulting in fatalities.
It’s critical that when farmers or contractors are making bagged silage or round bales that they are handled and stacked properly to ensure the stacks are stable and also that bales are placed in appropriate locations away from overhead lines.
We have revised our “Working safely with bales on farms” info sheet, which will be circulated to contractors and farmers shortly. Following this guidance will prevent death and injury.
Have things improved at all if we are heading for a record year of farm deaths?
The numbers and statistics would suggest it is not improving. Unfortunately, we are on track for a record-breaking year for farm deaths.
However, I do believe awareness has improved considerably.
The fact of the matter is, there has been a rapid increase in the national herd and national output. You can’t get all this extra output without making more silage, spreading more slurry, shifting more livestock, etc. That increases the risk.
How will you pick farms for inspections?
Our inspectors will visit farms all over Ireland. They will be visiting commercial farms where there is a lot going on. It will be random and unannounced. The focus is on machinery and farm vehicles, so trailers with no brakes or lights linked up, tractors missing key parts, PTOs missing covers, etc.
They will check for proper mirrors, cabs, brakes and systems of work to minimise reversing, alongside observing the basic issues like open slurry tanks etc.
How do farmers react to getting an unannounced inspection?
In general, it is fair to say the majority are open and helpful.
How should farmers react to the inspection?
Farmers should take the opportunity to let the expert eyes [inspectors] highlight dangers and areas of improvement. These inspectors can see danger where many people can’t, so farmers should use it as a positive learning experience.
How many inspectors have you on the ground and are your inspectors experienced?
There are about 20 that will be focused on farming inspections over the next two weeks. Yes, they are experienced and many have attended and investigated several serious farm fatalities over the last number of years.
Has COVID-19 has an impact on operating inspections?
Yes, farmers and the inspectors have to keep their distance from each other when carrying out the inspection, so as to limit the number of touch points and contacts.
The farmer will get a report of inspection detailing the issues needing follow-up, or if uncomfortable with taking it, the report can be sent later by email.
Does the farmer need to be on the farm for the inspection?
As I said, we see it as a great opportunity for the farmer to get good advice and it is best if the farm operator accompanies the inspector.
However, the inspector can meet the farmer before and after the inspection if necessary, due to COVID-19 restrictions.
The inspector will then identify the key risks – for example, are old or young people going to be on-farm etc, as that will form part of the risk strategy on the farm.
Will results of inspections be published?
We will use the results to inform future HSA activity and also in the publication of new guidelines.
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