In the lead up to harvest many farmers will be taking on casual employees to help with the increase in work load, but as recent figures from the Health and Safety Executive announce record levels of mortality and accidents in the agriculture sector, it’s imperative that farmers protect both their staff and themselves.

Alongside seasonal staff to help with the actual harvest of produce, many farmers will be contracting out maintenance both on site and of vehicles and machinery ready for harvesting, packing and distribution – vehicles currently account for 24% of all deaths in the industry. Having both contractors and seasonal staff employed adds another dimension to health and safety liability for farmers, many of whom may well work alone for most of the year.

Current health and safety legislation places an emphasis on not just the farmer but also outside contractors to ensure, where practical, the protection and safety of both employees and members of the public. The public liability issue is particularly highlighted by a recent case where an Aberdeenshire farmer received a two year prison sentence after a trailer he was towing broke free and killed a passing motorist.

Whilst regular maintenance can drastically reduce the number of accidents relating to faulty machinery, training and communication is the key to reducing overall harm, and farm insurance will ensure cover and liability payments should the worst happen.

Risk assessments play an important role in establishing where and how extra safety measures should be taken, whilst effective management and supervision of contractors and employees can also result in a real reduction in risk – accidents may occur because the contractors may not be aware of the hazards of working on farms or other farm workers may be unaware that contractors are on site.

Above all, keep communication channels open, only employ people who are qualified to do the job and check the progress of the work at regular intervals.