In the agricultural industry, harvest time has the potential to see an increase in the risks to the health and safety of employees. In regions such as Essex, where farming is a significant industry, the advice from Safety Revolution to employers may be particularly important. Safety measures and awareness of individual responsibilities should be in place at all times, but at this time of year, the increase in farm vehicle traffic and seasonal employees make them especially relevant.

Farm Safety Week runs from July 4th through the 8th, and Safety Revolution has highlighted some practical measures that farmers should note. It emphasised the importance of ensuring that everyone at work has attended an induction process and is fully aware of all procedures, especially at this busy time. This should cover the checking of machinery, working alone and actions that should be taken in the event of an accident. Employers are also urged to have documented evidence showing that certification, maintenance, employee training and other requirements are all up to date.

The managing director of Safety Revolution said that most farmers approached health and safety as an important facet to their business, but there have been a number of actions that have resulted in criminal proceedings and substantial fines. The organisation said that employers also needed to consider the requirement for ensuring adequate rest breaks and pointed out that a number of employers provide food for their workers to ensure that lunch breaks are taken.

Accidents in a workplace that utilizes heavy machinery can result in severe injuries if an employer fails to meet all of its health and safety responsibilities. A person who has been injured at work may be entitled to compensation if there was employer negligence and may wish to seek legal advice from a solicitor with a successful record of representing clients in these matters.