‘We are still seeing too many deaths and injuries in farming’
7th August 2024
Following the release of the latest figures from the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), which show that farming is the most dangerous profession in the UK, a personal injury lawyer said that more needs to be done to keep the industry safe.
The new data revealed that 27 people lost their lives on farms in 2023/2024, including two children. While agriculture only accounts for 1% of the working population, 20% of all workplace deaths are in this sector.
Specialist serious injury lawyer Lee Hart said that despite increased awareness of health and safety measures, the number of deaths and life-changing injuries remains too high, and the HSE’s decision to halt farm safety inspections is concerning.
READ MORE: FSP raises ‘serious concerns’ over HSE’s decision to stop farm inspections
Accidents happen too frequently
Mr Hart, a partner at law firm Clarke Willmott LLP, said that farming is undoubtedly a dangerous profession, and of course, accidents are going to happen.
“But that aside, incidents are happening too frequently. The HSE issue helpful guidance and initiatives like Farm Safety Week are incredibly important to reduce accidents across the agriculture industry, but more needs to be done.
“It is concerning that the HSE has decided to put a stop to farm safety inspections, a decision which is likely to increase risks to the health and safety of workers in the farming sector.
“Whilst they will continue to investigate serious accidents or deaths, the halting of safety inspections, training and events could lead to an increase in serious injuries and lost lives.
“We need the HSE to work collaboratively with farmers to improve standards and prevent accidents occurring,” he added.
Further data from insurer NFU Mutual shows there were 937 farm accident claims in 2023/24 totalling more than £68m. Claims included those related to falls from height, trapped body parts and falling objects.
Mr Hart continued: “Major agricultural insurers, such as NFU Mutual, will increasingly be relied upon to fill the gap left by the HSE halting investigations.”
Clarke Willmott is a national law firm with offices in Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Manchester, London, Southampton and Taunton and is this year celebrating its 135th anniversary.
READ MORE: Farm Safety Week launches: ‘Actions and attitudes of farmers need a major rethink’
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