SafeWork NSW is focusing on safety on farms and agricultural business across regional NSW as part of National Agriculture Day by providing education on how workplaces can prevent risks specific to the farming industry.
Head of SafeWork NSW Natasha Mann said it is an important time for agricultural businesses to celebrate the agricultural industry and ensure they are meeting their safety obligations.
“Tragically, farming incidents account for one in every five worker deaths nationally. SafeWork NSW wants to get this down to zero by working with farmers to improve safety practices related to farm vehicles, machinery and manual handling,” Ms Mann said.
“Recently 580 farmers gathered in the small rural community of Grenfell to attend a SafeWork NSW event discussing farm safety after a young farmer was involved in a fatal incident while attempting to recover bogged farm machinery.
“I encourage everyone to get involved in National Agriculture Day, have a chat with a SafeWork NSW inspector to learn more about safe farming practices – getting home safe at the end of the day is what matters most.” Said Ms Mann.
For more information, please visit http://agday.org.au/.
For incident information relating to the bogged farm machinery fatality on June 18, see www.safework.nsw.gov.au/compliance-and-prosecutions/incident-information-releases/agriculture/bogged-farm-machinery-fatality