Machines are the Major Contributor to Farm Fatalities
Issued 28th March 2002
Tractors and machines were the major causes of farm fatalities in 2001, according to a Teagasc farm safety expert.
John McNamara, Teagasc Farm Safety Officer, said that 14 of the 24 fatalities in farming last year were due to tractors and machinery.
Speaking in advance of Farm Safety Action Week, which commences Monday next, 8 April, Mr McNamara said putting an effective safety cover on the powershaft on every tractor in the country must be the priority over the next 2 weeks.
The Teagasc safety officer said that the preparation of a safety statement is a first essential step to the implementation of a safe farm environment. Simple guidelines have been produced by the Health and Safety Authority and copies are available from all Teagasc offices.
Mr McNamara referred to the escalation in farm-related injuries. Last year, over 3,600 accidents were recorded on Irish farms, almost double the figure recorded in 1996.
''This highlights the necessity for a more pro-active approach to safety among the farming community'', he said.
With children now on school holidays and spring activity on farms building up, John McNamara appealed for rigid attention to safety practices affecting children.
''Seven of last year's 24 farm fatalities were children. To avoid a repeat of this unspeakable anguish, every farm family should familiarise itself with the Code of Practice preventing accidents to children. Copies are available from Teagasc and the Health and Safety Authority'', he said.
