Summer Farm Safety Tips

Farming is a great way of life.  For the most part, you are your own boss, you work closely with nature and the commute to work is a gentle one.  But it is a working life with many risks. Health and Safety on farms is a cause for concern as accident rates are still high in the agricultural sector. Farmers often work longer and harder in the long summer days to make the best of good weather and longer hours of light and this also brings a peak time for farming accidents. The sun might be shining, and life is looking good, but it’s a time when farming families need to be extra vigilant to avoid accidents.

An accident on the farm can have devastating effects on farming families and on the community. The most common hazards on the farm involve heavy vehicles and machinery, exposure to toxic chemicals, animal related injuries, heat stress and sunburn, falling from heights and suffocation. If we take a few safety steps and follow advice and guidance, we can prevent and reduce the incidents and accident rate on our farms, especially during the summer months.

Heat and Sun

Stay hydrated, especially when working in the sun. Drink lots of water. Slather on the sunscreen and protect your scalp with a hat. Shield and protect your eyes with sunglasses. Farmers should not  be afraid of looking like a cool tourist and should be rocking a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen in these warmer days!

Machinery

Most farm accidents involve large agricultural machinery.  Make sure your machinery is in good order. The health and safety guidelines give the following advice regarding the upkeep of tractors and equipment.

"Check that all power take-off (PTO) shaft guards are fully intact, including the “O” guard on the machine side, the “U” guard on the tractor and the main shaft guard. Make sure brakes and steering are properly maintained and that windows and mirrors are clean and in place to provide all-round visibility. Remember,  some machines have more than one source of power so isolate electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic systems before you start any repairs or maintenance."

(hsnei.co.uk)

Take breaks regularly and check the machinery for overheating as you push to get crops harvested or silage made.

Ticks and Pests

Protect yourself from ticks, mosquitos, and the dreaded midges. Ticks are annoying and they can cause serious  health issues. Check for those little pests regularly. Buy a good repellent and keep yourself safe.

Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals

Familiarity may lead to a degree of contempt when handling dangerous and necessary chemicals. Do not become complacent when using weed killers, pesticides, and farm chemicals. Store all toxic material under lock and key in a designated storage and use caution when handling and using on the farm.

Falling from a Height

Falls remain one of the main causes of farm deaths. Before starting work somewhere high, make sure you have the correct equipment, a partner to assist and that it is absolutely necessary. Think Safety. Ensure that ladders are securely tied and in good condition (see article: Get a good sturdy ladder) and never go on to a roof or high wall that does not look safe.

Animals

To avoid accidents when working with animals, always have an escape route planned. Seek assistance from another farmer or family member if you need to approach an aggressive or upset animal. Keep gates and fences in good condition. Farm livestock can be unpredictable and even more so when the temperatures are soaring.

Slurry

Always presume that your slurry tank and wherever you are spreading slurry is a toxic area for people and animals.  Slurry contains a mixture of gasses: carbon dioxide, methane, ammonia, and hydrogen sulphide. Hydrogen sulphide is particularly nasty, and caution must be taken when slurry mixing takes place.  Keep all children away, ventilate the area and try to mix on a windy day.

Keeping children on the Farm

During the Summer holidays children love to have their country adventures, running through the fields and enjoying the freedom of nature. Make special preparations for the summer school holidays and get your farm as safe as possible for your own or visiting children. Make a safe and enclosed play area to stop wee ones wandering off into the fields. Identify the areas where children are at risk. Slurry pits, water tanks, wells and open water sources should be fenced off. Talk to children and let them know where they are allowed to play and make sure they know the dangers of the farm.

Summer is a lovely season on the farm,  Nature offers all it has in abundance and looks petty too.  Enjoy the season and remember that here at the Dandy’s Derrynoose, we have safety masks, gloves, and safety clothing at great prices. We are always happy to discuss the safe use of our fantastic herbicide and cleaning products. Keep farm safe, avoid accidents and make good memories for the years ahead.