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Agriculture stands as an integral pillar in the Irish economy, but it has proven to be one of the most dangerous professions due to its high fatality rate, more so than any other economic sector.
Farm Safety Week takes place this year from 24 to 28 July and this supplement highlights the risks of farming as an occupation and how best to avoid them.
Safety is a lifestyle, not a slogan.
Incidents related to farming are on the rise and unfortunately this year proves no different, with 14 confirmed farm-related fatalities so far.
Excluding this year, there have been 197 lives lost within the agricultural community since 2007 with the fatalities primarily a result of tractors, farm machinery and livestock.
The demographic and age profile of those affected remains quite alarming with older farmers accounting for 34% of casualties.
According to the HSA, farmers’ attitudes to safety only change after a serious injury has occurred.
Children
Now, more than ever, it is crucial to be conscious of the presence of children on the farm during the summer holidays as they are exceptionally vulnerable to serious harm.
A total of 23 children have lost their lives between 2007 and 2016 with 39% of these related to machinery, trailers and equipment.
A heightened sense of awareness is needed when handling livestock as they account for a large proportion of incidents on the farm.
From 2007 to 2016, 26 deaths have occurred in the area. Cows and heifers have proven to be a considerable threat with 46% of all incidents occurring relating back to them. This is then followed by bulls causing 19% of casualties.
Farming comes with some of the most dangerous responsibilities compared with any other profession. It is always important to be safety aware and educated on the dangers that lie ahead when leaving home.
All the coverage from Farm Safety Week 2017
The farmyard is not a playground
Accidents only take seconds to happen, not minutes or hours
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