Farming fatalities increase

EXPERIENCED f armers doing routine work made up more than half of all Victorian workplace deaths last year, new data shows.

A total of 27 Victorians lost their lives in 2017 in workplace accidents — the highest toll since 2009, WorkSafe data released yesterday reveals.

Fourteen deaths involved accidents on farms, making it the highest number of farm fatalities since 2004.

All but two of the 27 deaths were males and nine were aged 65 or over.

“Many of those who died were doing tasks they have done many times before, so it is important that everyone takes the time to plan their day with safety in mind,” WorkSafe’s Adam Watson said.

Sixteen of the deaths involved vehicles or mobile machinery and Mr Watson said the common theme was the failure to identify and manage hazards. “Employers, particularly those using farm vehicles such as quad bikes, need to remind their workers to recognise risks and prioritise safety before attempting a task,” he said.

A 50-year-old man was trampled to death while drafting cattle at Georges Creek near Tallangatta on January 4.