Half of workplace deaths on farms

HALF of those killed in the workplace so far this year were on farms, the Health and Safety Authority has disclosed.

Of the 16 people to die so far in 2006, eight have been killed on farms or in farm related accidents. The worst accident black spot is Cork, where five of the deaths took place.

Once again, a key feature of the farm fatality figures is the age of those killed, with four of those who died being 65 or older.

The latest to die was a young Mayo farmer who was killed last Thursday after being attacked by a bull near his home. The death was the first by animal attack in 2006.

A recurring feature of farm fatalities and injuries in recent years has been the number of animal related incidents.

Health and Safety Authority chief executive Tom Beegan said farmers were failing to take heed of the need for greater awareness of safety.

“Every accident is predictable and preventable. It just takes a little extra care and attention to prevent.

“We urge farmers to just take five or 10 minutes to spot and sort potential safety issues.”

Mr Beegan said the ongoing work of the authority, including its farm self assessment system, meant that no farmer should be unaware of the dangers faced on the farm or of their responsibilities under health and safety law.

Teagasc health and safety officer John McNamara said the safety record on farms has deteriorated, with the number of farm deaths rising from 13 in 2004 to 18 in 2005.