With schools starting to break up for the holidays soon, a farming union is warning farmers of the dangers of letting children play on farm during the summer.
The warning comes ahead of Farm Safety Week, which takes place from 24 to 28 July, when farmers will be urged to improve the the UK's safety record.
NFU Scotland, working in conjunction with Farm Safety Partnership, will be issuing case studies throughout Farm Safety Week of well-known farmers within the industry who have survived accidents on farm and the impact this had on their family and business.
Accidents on farm can be life changing, not just for those involved but for their families and workforce too.
They can be even more devastating when children are involved, and the plea for this year's summer school holidays is for farmers to take measures to make their farms safer for children.
'Stay safe while working'
NFU Scotland Vice President Martin Kennedy commented: “We need the help of farmers, and those working right across the industry, to reduce death and injuries happening on our farms and crofts.
“Farms can be dangerous places so it is important that everyone takes the necessary steps to stay safe while working.
“One death within the industry is far too many, and it is not just the initial impact but the long-term effect it can have on families and on the business.
“This impact is exacerbated when children are involved. We are pleading with the industry to take measures to make their farms a safer place – create designated spaces, educate children about off-limit areas and make workers aware that children could be on farm and to check their mirrors even more regularly. Simple measures could prevent heartbreak.
“Most people working within the agricultural industry will be able to recall a close call that could so easily have resulted in serious injury or even fatality.
“By adopting some simple steps as part of everyday working practices we can reduce the number of accidents and deaths on Scotland’s farms.”
NFU Scotland's safety tips
• A farmyard is not a playground so establish rules about what young people can and can’t do on the farm.
• Keep children away from farm machinery and moving vehicles.
• Children under 13 years old must not drive or operate tractors or other farm machinery.
• Children under 13 years old must not ride as passengers on tractors, ATVs or other farm machinery.
• Ensure drivers have a clear view of corners and install mirrors to increase visibility if necessary.
• Make sure slurry pits and tanks are securely fenced and inaccessible to prevent children from getting near the area.
