53-year-old Nottinghamshire farmer dies after falling through fragile roof

This was the message from the HSE, which is launching farm inspections to ensure farmers and employers are complying with the law to prevent death, injury and ill-health.

It said it would ‘not hesitate to use enforcement to bring about improvements’.

39 people were killed in the sector during 2018-19.

Risk

HSE’s acting head of agriculture Andrew Turner said: “We are seeing signs of change in attitude across the farming industry and while this is encouraging, these inspections act as a reminder to farmers of the importance of managing risks so that everyone can go home healthy and safe from work.

“Everyone involved in farming has a role to play. Those working in the industry need to understand the risks they face and the simple ways they can be managed.

“Farmers, managers and workers are reminded that death, injuries and cases of ill-health are not an inevitable part of farming.”

The inspections chime with the Farm Safety Partnership’s (FSP) 12-month campaign focusing on machinery, falls from height, children on farm and working with livestock.

Earlier this month the FSP launched its final quarter of the campaign on working at height, urging farmers to avoid roof work or work at height, or use a professional where able.

If maintenance work at height cannot be avoided, the partnership added it was key to plan ahead and ensure the right equipment and training is ensued.

“Do not be tempted to use the wrong equipment,” it added.