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The Department of Agriculture has joined Macra na Feirme in calling on all young people to take the lead on farm safety, with the launch of the Macra Safe Agri Skills initiative.
The initiative provides four short training courses in relevant areas around farm safety, highlighting incidents with vehicles, machinery and livestock, which account for the majority of fatalities on Irish farms.
Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture Martin Heydon said that while the courses are aimed at young farmers, there is great benefit for all in taking the time to complete each of the modules.
Time well spent
The core online training courses relate to tractor and machinery safety, livestock handling, manual handling and first aid for farming.
There are also optional extras, including chainsaw use and quad bike safety awareness training.
Minister Heydon said: “Those of all ages and levels of experience will pick up important safety reminders in each module and many farmers will find the livestock handling and manual handling courses to be particularly beneficial.
“Taking the time to make sure you are not putting yourself in harm’s way when working on farm is time well spent. Completing this training will certainly be of benefit to you and help you to keep yourself safe in your work.”
Dangerous job
The course is offered by Macra Agricultural Skillnet as part of its farmer training programme.
Macra national president Thomas Duffy has called on all those working in farming to complete the safety training and ensure all those working with them do so.
“Farming is a dangerous job where simple mistakes, especially during stressful times such as calving or harvest, can lead to life-changing injuries or death.
“Everyone involved in agriculture needs to be aware of the principles set out in the course to protect not just their own safety, but also their health and wellbeing.”
For further information and to complete the training, click here.
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