Farm Safety Improves Through 'Incremental Gain', Says Birkett
Improving health and safety is about incremental gain rather than a sudden decision, says Leeston farmer and Federated Farmers health and safety spokesman David Birkett.
The company says from talking to farmers in recent months, it seems many remain confused.
“The problem is it all seems too hard and the general perception is that most don’t know where to start; it will involve a lot of paperwork and be very time-taxing,” it claims.
“You will have to set up some good sound health and safety systems, but it doesn’t need to feel like you’re planning the next Mount Everest expedition.
“Your health and safety system needs to work for you, your style of doing business and in a way that gives you peace of mind that you have taken ‘all practicable steps’ to ensure the safety of anyone on your property, including staff, contractors and visitors.”
OnFarmSafety systems and processes are designed to make sure farmers are able to gain good working knowledge on the subject of health and safety, while still having the time to run their business.
It starts the process with a full assessment audit of how you currently operate and what you do either informally or in writing. This enables the company to tailor a system specifically for each client to give them the confidence that if there is a serious situation they have taken all the necessary measures required.
Every workplace needs a health and safety plan. “If you are a one-man-band, you need to take all necessary precautions to ensure those coming onto your farm are safe and are fully aware of all the relevant hazards they could encounter.”
Tel 0508 ONFARM
