Prevent Farm Injuries in January

FATAL farm accidents showed a reduction in 2018 with 17 deaths (provisional figure). This is five fewer than the average for the previous 5 years (22). No farm fatality was recorded in the final quarter of 2018.

Fifty three per cent (9) of fatalities in 2018 were associated with farm vehicles and machinery while a further 29 per cent (5) were associated with livestock. The remaining 18 per cent of deaths (3) were associated with a fall from height, slurry drowning and timber cutting.

Fifty nine per cent (10) of fatalities occurred to persons aged 65 years or older, with half (5) occurring to persons aged 75 or older.

Teagasc Health and Safety Specialist, Dr John McNamara called on farmers to give safety first priority during January and the busy spring period in 2019. He said that the risk of farm accidents rises with increased work activity and prevention is strongly associated with implementing behavioural practices.

Being struck with a moving vehicle is the most frequent cause of farm deaths on Irish farms, so particular vigilance is needed when they are operating, he stated. A vehicle moving at fast walking pace covers about 2 meters per second so it gives a person in its path little chance to avoid impact. Elderly farmers are