Safety First Down on the Farm

Did you know that, although agriculture employs only about 1.5% of the working population it accounts for around 20% of work-related deaths every year? This is set to change however, thanks to a joint initiative between the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and the Scottish Agricultural College (SAC).

Farm safety is now firmly on the curriculum for the new intake of students at the SAC, with practical advice and guidance from the Health and Safety Executive.

The latest edition of HSE's free Farmwise guide is being used to get the next generation of farmers to understand the risks they face in what is one of Britain's most dangerous industries, and the simple steps they can take to keep safe.

The booklet has been prepared by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to help individuals to:   

• effectively manage health, safety and welfare                                                                                          
• comply with the law
• carry out the risk assessments that they must do
• work safely and healthily.

John Elcock, lecturer at the Scottish Agricultural College and a representative of the college's Learning Division, Health and Safety Committee, said:

"We consider health and safety on farms a topic of paramount importance and so welcome the input from HSE."

If  you currently offer Farm-based qualifications, and are interested in finding out how the HSE can help your organisation ensure a good safety record, you can download the HSE's new Farm Safety Booklet from their website.