OVER the past decade, there have been 37 fatalities in falls from heights on farms in the island of Ireland, according to the latest figures from the Health and Safety Authority [HSA].

This week, the HSA, along with their counterparts in Northern Ireland, the Health and Safety Executive NI, have launched a month long inspection campaign on farms and construction sites.

The common ‘fall hazards’ on Irish farms continue to be on ladders, unprotected roof edges, stacked bales and fragile/ageing roof structures.

Inspections taking place in the agriculture sector over the coming weeks will focus on compliance with the legal requirements which should be met when working at height.

Safe systems of work for any height-related activity will be looked for in the inspections, as well as the use of proper equipment such as mobile elevated work platforms [MEWPs] or secured platforms.

The inspections will also focus on ensuring the safe stacking and handling of bales and on increasing awareness of fragile roof structures and sheeting.

National IFA Farm Family and Social Affairs Chair, Teresa Roche, told the Farming Tribune that one of the most worrying aspects in relation to farm fatalities was the age profile of farmers losing their lives in accidents, with 50% of them being over 65.

“Falls from heights, whether it be when dealing with roofs, skylights, solar panels, or bales of straw and hay, are all accidents that are entirely preventable.

“Before thinking of doing those jobs, all farmers – but especially older farmers – should just step back and reassess the job that they are taking on.

“As farmers get older they can have reduced mobility; they are less agile; their reaction times can be slower; and in some cases they may have reduced vision.

“They just need to be aware of their limitations and not try and take on too much. Very often too, older farmers are working on their own, which again puts them in a more vulnerable position,” said Teresa Roche.

She added that working at heights – as well as livestock and machinery – were the ‘big killers’ on Irish farms with the risk increasing significantly with age. “If you think any job is too dodgy or risky, then just don’t do it. Err on the side of caution always and ask for help,” said Teresa Roche.

Farmers will also be encouraged by the HSA to engage only with competent contractors for high-risk work projects around their farms and farmyards.

“Falls from height remain one of the leading causes of death and serious injury in construction and agriculture. To tackle this, the HSA and HSE NI have launched this month-long, all-island inspection campaign with the goal of reducing the number of serious injuries and fatalities linked to working at heights,” the safety authorities state.

According to Adrienne Duff, Assistant Chief Executive, HSA, falls are entirely preventable with everyone deserving to return home from work safely and unharmed.

“This campaign aims to raise awareness and to drive home the message that taking shortcuts or carrying out work without due regard to the risks involved is not an option. Work must be planned and controls put in place to prevent a fall from heights,” said Adrienne Duff.

■ Resources and practical guidance for safer work at height are available now at hsa.ie and hseni.gov.uk

Pictured: Teresa Roche: Be aware of your own limitations.