Quick wins to be made in making a safety-first culture on-farm

Having worked in the land-based sector for more than a decade, I’ve met plenty of farmers and growers who have managed to transform their working practices and improve their safety records in the process.  

Here are some of the practical tips I've learnt from farmers and growers on how they've implemented and maintained a safety-first environment in their businesses: 

Invest in regular training

Continuous education is key to maintaining safety standards. LANTRA and TIAH offer quality online qualifications and refresher courses and signpost to verified training providers for in-person training, too. City & Guilds qualifications can also provide comprehensive training in specific areas such as machinery operation and chemical handling. 

Conduct regular safety audits

Regular inspections help identify potential hazards before they cause accidents. Develop a checklist for safety audits that includes equipment checks, chemical storage, and livestock handling areas. Address any issues immediately to prevent accidents. 

Encourage open communication

Foster an environment where workers feel comfortable reporting safety concerns without fear of reprisal. Regular safety meetings can provide a platform for discussing potential hazards and brainstorming solutions. This open communication helps in promptly addressing safety issues. 

Implement safety protocols

Establish clear safety protocols for all farm activities. These should include procedures for machinery operation, chemical handling, emergency responses and safe animal handling practices. Ensure  all workers are familiar with these protocols and adhere to them strictly. 

Provide personal protective equipment (PPE)

Ensure all workers have access to appropriate PPE for their tasks. This includes gloves, masks, goggles and protective clothing. Regularly check the condition of PPE and replace it as necessary. 

Promote a safety-first mindset

Lead by example by always following safety protocols yourself. Recognise and reward workers who consistently adhere to safety practices. This positive reinforcement helps in embedding a safety-first mindset within the farm culture. 

Utilise Continuous Professional Development (CPD)

Encourage workers to engage in CPD opportunities. This could include attending workshops, online courses, or industry conferences. Continuous learning helps keep safety practices current and effective. 

By implementing these tips, farmers can create a robust culture of safety that protects workers, improves productivity and ensures the long-term success of their farming operations.  

No matter what sector you’re in, or what level your role, there are plenty of options available to help you improve your knowledge and skills – and those around you too. 

Quality training vital to a safe workplace

In my career, I’ve met farmers who have improved their machinery handling safety procedures, reduced the number of chemical-related incidences and strengthen the health of their livestock. And the common theme behind all these cases has been the value of getting quality training for themselves and their staff. 

Investing in qualifications and regular training not only fulfils regulatory requirements but it also builds a safer, more efficient workplace. 

Visit our Farm Safety Week page to find out more about how to improve safety in your business, including how our Toolbox Talks can help you quickly upskill your team and share best practice on a variety of on-farm tasks.