Farm Fatalities Warning

Farmers across Britain are being urged to prioritise safety after new figures revealed 27 people were killed in the agricultural industry in 2023/24¹ .

The number of fatalities serves as a stark reminder for anyone involved in agriculture which encompasses farming, forestry and fishing that safety must always be a top priority.

While accidents can happen, many are preventable. It is crucial to implement and maintain rigorous safety protocols, which may include regular training, the corret use of equipment and strictly adhering to all safety guidelines.

Farmers should also conduct regular risk assessments to identify and mitigate potential hazards on their farms. By taking these proactive steps, we can reduce the number of preventable incidents and protect the lives of both workers and the public in this essential industry.

Helping older farmers who are most at risk

The data revealed more than 44% of fatalities nationwide involved individuals over the age of 60.

Older farmers face unique challenges, such as reduced physical strength, slower reaction times and underlying health conditions, which can increase the risk of accidents.

In addition to standard safety practices, they should consider taking more frequent breaks to help prevent fatigue and enlisting extra help when needed.

Embracing new technologies such as wearable safety devices and real-time hazard monitoring systems can play a significant role in reducing risks.

Furthermore, farm owners, colleagues and family members should be vigilant in recognising when older workers may be struggling and provide appropriate support. This could involve assigning less physically demanding tasks and fostering a culture where asking for help is encouraged and respected.

¹HSE provisional figures, fatal injuries reported under RIDDOR