Farmers urged to keep children on farms safe

Farmers and crofters have been reminded of the dangers of letting children play on farms during the summer holidays

The warning from NFU Scotland (NFUS) comes ahead of Farm Safety Week, which takes place on July 24-28.

The annual awareness campaign is organised by Farm Safety Partnership Scotland – a collaboration between NFUS, the Health and Safety Executive, Scottish Government and rural insurer NFU Mutual.

It sets out to try to improve the safety record of Scottish agriculture.

“We need the help of Scotland’s farmers and crofters, and those working right across the industry, to reduce death and injuries happening on our farms and crofts,” said Aberfeldy farmer and NFUS vice-president Martin Kennedy.

“Farms can be dangerous places so it is important that everyone takes the necessary steps to stay safe while working.

“One death within the industry is far too many, and it is not just the initial impact but the long-term effect it can have on families and on the business.”

He said the safety risks on farms were exacerbated when children are involved.

“We are pleading with the industry to take measures to make their farms and crofts a safer place – create designated spaces, educate children about off-limit areas and make workers aware children could be on farm and to check their mirrors even more regularly. Simple measures could prevent heartbreak.

“Most people working within the agricultural industry will be able to recall a close call that could so easily have resulted in serious injury or even fatality.

“By adopting some simple steps as part of everyday working practices we can reduce the number of accidents and deaths on Scotland’s farms.”