Farm Safety Partnership undertaking the 2020-2023 Farm Safety Action Plan
Strangford MP Jim Shannon has highlighted the work being carried out by Farm Safety Partnership which involves representatives from DAERA, HSENI, UFU, NFU and Young Farmers Clubs.
Mr Shannon said: “The Stop and Think Safe farm safety multi-media campaign was developed to address the high rates of serious accidents and deaths on Northern Ireland farms and in particular the 4 main causes of serious accidents and deaths – slurry, animals, falls from height and equipment.
“This campaign, funded by Daera, has proven to be effective as has the new online tool which enable risk assessments to be carried out to be able to more safely manage the farm and the risks that are part and parcel of being a farmer.”
During July and August, 128 young people have participated on the tractor driving course for 13-16 year olds to improve safety, and this includes how to use trailers and other safety measures.
“There have also been other schemes which over 3000 farmers participated in to improve safety, and 470 farm family members have participated in a ‘Coping with the Pressures of Farming’ Course which is great news due to the stress and isolation of farming and which more farmers need to be aware of.
“The main thrust of this work which is being undertaken is to remind farmers and the farming community that there is help available to meet physical and mental needs and to provide different ways of doing things to achieve the same outcome but in a safer way,” added Jim Shannon.
