According to a report from The Health and Safety Executive (HSE), Britain’s national regulator for health and safety, the last year saw 27 fatalities in agriculture-related activities, including a three-year-old child, maintaining the industry’s high rate of fatal injuries. In a press release from the HSE, which coincided with Farm Safety Week (17 – 21 July), the regulator urges farmers to prioritise better safety attitudes and change poor behaviours, saying the time has come for farmers to “think differently about safety”.

Despite a noticeable reduction in fatal injuries since the 1980s, the fatality rate remains high, mainly attributed to being crushed by animals, falls from height, vehicle accidents, machinery incidents, and strikes by objects. Older workers (65+) account for a third of all fatalities. Farm Safety Week aligned with the release of this report, emphasising the urgent need for safety changes, particularly as children are still victims of farming accidents.

An advisory website, ‘Your Farm – Your Future’, was also launched earlier this year to improve workplace safety.

What is Farm Safety Week?

Farm Safety Week is an initiative led by the Farm Safety Foundation and supported by the Farm Safety Partnerships, The Health and Safety Executive, the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland and the Health & Safety Authority, Ireland.

You can read the full press release from the HSE here.

The full report, along with summaries of the circumstances of the individual fatal injuries, can be read here.

Agricultural Accidents Solicitors

As the victim of a farming accident, you will want to do all you can to get yourself (or your family member) the justice you deserve. At Bridge McFarland LLP, our personal injury solicitors and farming accident specialists are ready to offer legal support to farming families impacted by these tragedies. We have offices across Lincolnshire, East Yorkshire and surrounding areas and have supported the local farming community for many years.

Agricultural and farming accidents can often result in life changing, debilitating and sometimes even fatal injuries. Our understanding and experienced lawyers are here to support you through the entire personal injury claim process to help you recover the compensation you deserve.

It is essential to seek comprehensive legal advice promptly following your accident, as time limits to claims do apply.

To speak to our friendly and personable team today, please call 0800 987 8800 or email info@bmcf.co.uk.