FARM Safety, HOUSING AND DISEASE CONTROL
Mandatory checks are essential to maintaining a safe environment for farm owners and visitors
THE safety of every individual on the farm, both owner and visitor, is of paramount importance. A proficient farmer will carry out mandatory checks at regular intervals to ensure the following:
Q All machinery and equipment is in good working order, and all individuals assigned to use such equipment are fully trained to do so.
Q The safety of those who may be at a higher risk on the farm such as young children and older farmers is considered.
Q Communication, both verbal and visual in the form of signs, to allow for clear instructions to all is evident.
CHILDREN
A designated area, away from the main farming area, in which children can access, should be provided. Supervision of all children in any area is recommended. High risk areas such as water and slurry tanks should be fenced off.
MACHINERY
The brakes, handbrake and all controls on farm vehicles should be checked regularly to ensure they are in full working order. Care should be taken to ensure vehicles, especially quads, are operated by trained personnel only and protective headwear is essential for same. Vehicles should be parked in a safe place when not in use, with keys removed and placed in a secure place.
FARMYARD
The design of the farmyard and associated buildings, the safe storage and handling of slurry and accessing heights are all important factors to consider in a safe farmyard. Simple measures such as secure doors, and fitted handrails in elevated areas, will all ensure safety.
ELECTRICITY
All electrical supplies should be checked regularly by a competent electrician. All cables should be positioned in safe places so they are not susceptible to damage and should be inspected regularly. Lighting should be adequate in all areas of the farmyard and light bulbs checked and replaced as needed. Extra care should be taken when operating machinery near overhead lines. Thankfully, there have been no farm accidents due to overhead lines since 2004.
HEALTH
In order to ensure you are adequately protected against various health threats on the farm, the following should be in place and used as required: safety overalls, dust mask, gloves, goggles, ear and face protection and safety boots.
CHEMICALS
All chemicals should have their original labels and should be stored in a secure area. Recommendations for use should be strictly adhered to and when finished, the empty containers should be disposed of safely.
LIVESTOCK
The behaviour of farm animals can often be unpredictable especially when provoked by certain triggers such as shouting or when approached by unfamiliar people. Bulls are particularly dangerous and extreme caution should be exercised when in the vicinity of a bull.
Farmers should ensure that the bull is fitted with a ring and chain while in the field, and that a bull pen is used for feeding. Female livestock with their young can also be unpredictable. Crush and other suitable facilities are essential for handling, loading and unloading cattle and other livestock.