The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has launched a nationwide farm safety inspection campaign focused on enhancing safety measures surrounding tractors, machinery, and work vehicles. The initiative comes in response to 28 vehicle-related fatalities on farms over the past five years, underscoring the need for farmers to prioritize safety.
Running through April 15th, the campaign aims to reduce both fatalities and injuries, with particular emphasis on the safe operation of tractors and machinery.
Ger Hartnett, Senior Farm Safety Inspector at the HSA, spoke with KCLR News about essential safety steps for farmers. He recommended that farmers “plan ahead, check the HSA website for guidance, ensure operators are trained and competent, and ensure machinery is in good working order.”
This initiative seeks to raise awareness and encourage farm workers across the country to adopt proactive safety measures, aiming to reduce the risks associated with farming machinery and vehicles.