Farmers warned on roof work risks

THE Health and Safety Authority has issued an urgent warning to farmers to be extra vigilant when working at heights in high winds.

It warns that it is essential that farmers do not go onto shed roofs to inspect or tie down sheeting in windy conditions.

A number of fatal accidents have occurred when farmers have fallen from roofs while attempting this work. Unsecured gates on farms can also present a risk during windy weather.

HAS chief executive Tom Beegan said high winds can make working conditions unsafe and anyone working in these conditions should be aware of the hazards.