Survey into one of the worst sectors for fatalities
Aviva is warning the farming industry it must undergo improved risk management because the sector has one of the worst records in fatalities.
As the agricultural industry diversifies and the risks multiply, employers must be aware of the dangers to employees and visitors, warns Aviva.
As part of its 2009 Simply Safety campaign, Aviva’s UK Insurance business is advising workers in the agricultural industry to adopt safe working practices.
On average, 46 people working in the agricultural sector are killed each year - almost one death per week - with many more injured.
Phil Grace, liability risk manager, Aviva’s UK Insurance says: “Within the agricultural sector there are a number of high risk activities including the use of farm machinery and work at height.
“With 50% of full and part-time farmers having diversified business as they look to increase their income source and respond to new and evolving consumer demands they are faced with new risks.
“The sector continues to develop and is moving from traditional bed and breakfasts and retail, to sports and recreation, resulting in increases in the nature of the risks, in addition to the number and type of people exposed to them.”
The main cause of death is transport – workers being knocked over or vehicles overturning – accounting for 24% of fatalities. This is followed by falling from height (17%).¹
With the agricultural sector facing many pressures, including financial and inclement weather, Aviva UK Insurance, is reminding farmers not to cut corners or to take greater risks when it comes to health and safety.
Grace also urges employers to remember they have a responsibility to those who may be affected by work activity, such as visitors and members of the general public.
Grace says; “Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, employers have a duty to protect anyone who comes into contact with work activity, ensuring adequate provision is made for health and safety ‘so far as is reasonably practical.’ This is achieved by implementing a risk assessment process.
“Taking the following steps will help to protect your livelihood, your workers and any other individuals who may be affected by work activity. First, identify any hazards, for example what machinery is being used or whether children are present and could be injured. Of the 464 people killed over the past 10 years, 26 of these were children under the age of sixteen.¹
“Then assess the risks and introduce the appropriate controls. Make sure employees have the correct instruction and training to use equipment or carry out their job and identify and provide any protective equipment that is required.
“This could range from wearing the correct protective equipment when using sheep dips to making sure the floor in a farm shop is clean and safe.”
