Farmers ‘must tackle workplace accidents’

Posted 07/07/2011

Farmers have been urged to make changes to the way in which they operate, which could reduce the risk of anyone who works on their farm having to make a personal injury claim.

Aviva is calling for those working in the industry to focus on reducing accidents.

This is because, according to work and pensions minister Lord Freud, almost 750 people have died in farmland accidents over the past 16 years.

As part of its Simply Safety campaign, the insurer has now issued risk management advice and pointed out that the majority of incidents occur when professionals are carrying out maintenance work or undertaking vehicle repairs.

Guidance has also been offered on working from height.

Liability risk manager at Aviva Phil Grace said: “Planning is key and a few simple steps can significantly reduce the risk of an accident.”

Last month, MP for Central Suffolk Dr Dan Poulter claimed the government should amend agricultural laws to ensure farmers with commercial contracts receive a fair price for their produce, the BBC reported.