Campaign to cut fatalities on Scottish farms

Farm Safety Partnership Scotland (FSPS) is encouraging farm workers to make safety a priority.

For those amidst harvest, it is essential that they practice the ‘Safe Stop’ method when working with machinery, equipment and vehicles - handbrake on, controls in neutral, engine off, keys out.

Last year there were 33 deaths in the agricultural industry with five in Scotland. The most common causes of death in the agricultural industry continues to involve falls, transport, animals and equipment.

Speaking on behalf of FSPS, NFU Scotland Chief Executive Scott Walker commented: 'One death or injury on Scotland’s farms and crofts is frankly one too many and as an industry we need to take action to make a conscious effort to put our safety, and that of those living and working around us as a priority.

'Whether it is carrying out maintenance to a roof, checking over a machine, or working in a field with power lines, injuries and deaths through accidents most of the time are preventable by taking simple steps and precautions.

'This campaign encourages farmers and crofters to make a point of ensuring their working environment is safe to help us work together to reduce the death and injury toll on our farms and crofts.

'This autumn, it is about Your Safety, Your Choice, and as the darker nights draw in, and many are rushing to get the job done it is important to take a step back to make sure you are working safely.'