Always take care on farms

WINTER is knocking on our farm gates and as the days get shorter, the weather colder and wetter, the risk of an accident on the farm increases as well.

It is therefore once again worth reminding our customers and members that agriculture is one of the most, if not the most, dangerous industry to work in and sadly the fatality statistics are there to prove it. Wales recorded three fatalities in 2021-22 according to Health and Safety Executive figures, with 25 people killed in total across Great Britain.

Out of those 25, two were killed in incidents involving livestock. But we have known our livestock for years, we know what we’re doing, right? Handling cattle always involves a risk of injury from crushing, kicking, butting or goring. The risk is increased if the work involves animals that have not been handled frequently, such as those from hills or moorland, sucklers or newly calved cattle. Certain jobs, such as veterinary work or TB testing, may increase the risk further.

Advice from the Health and Safety Executive stresses that “proper handling systems, trained and competent staff, and a rigorous culling policy can help make sure cattle handling can be carried out in relative safety”, whereas attempting to carry out stock tasks on unrestrained cattle or with makeshift equipment is particularly hazardous.

However, contrary to what has previously been claimed by officials, it is never possible to fully eliminate the risk of handling cattle. We must never underestimate the risk, even with good precautions in place.

Familiarity with individual cattle can lead to complacency, especially when handling bulls.

We have serious health and safety challenges on our farms: you are still six times more likely to be killed on a farm than you would be on a building site.

We therefore urge you to be cautious and follow the right procedures and have a chat with us about any insurance concerns you might have.