The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has launched a two-week nationwide inspection campaign focusing on working at height on small and large farms.

Over the last 10 years, there were 98 fatalities as a result of falls from height in Irish workplaces, of which 20 were on Irish farms.

The HSA said the main hazards when working at height are falls from ladders, unprotected edges of roofs and falls through fragile roof materials.

HSA programme manager Darren Arkins said farmers need to be aware of the risks of working at height and plan ahead before undertaking the work.

“A fall from a height can lead to a very serious life-changing injury or even death. Taking shortcuts or carrying out work without due regard to the risks involved is not an option for any person working at height on a farm.”

Inspections

During farm visits, HSA inspectors will give advice on carrying out risk assessments, using appropriate machinery such as a mobile elevated work platform or using any other adequate working platforms.

The authority is urging farmers to avail of the 'How to make construction appointments for your farm' guidance document for further advice.

Other than protecting a farmer from an accident, the HSA said the benefits of booking a construction appointment include protecting a client against prosecution and passing the responsibilities of safety to the project supervisors.

“Farmers could also seek out a competent contractor with the right equipment to carry out the work at height safely,” Arkins added.

“Farmers and duty holders should remember maintenance of a structure is considered ‘construction work’ and the extensive legal requirements for construction work must be complied with.”