Compromising safety means compromising lives, says Farmsafe Australia.
Vehicle and machinery safety is critically important on farms. Failing to make it a priority means risking life and limb.
During National Farm Safety Week in July, Farmsafe Australia turned the spotlight on the critical importance of vehicle and machinery safety.
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Farm vehicles and machinery are indispensable tools in modern agriculture, but their operation comes with inherent risks.
By adopting straightforward safety measures, farmers can create a safer working environment and enhance overall productivity.
Farmsafe Australia chair Felicity Richards said prioritising safety not only protected the lives of farm workers but also contributed to the overall efficiency and sustainability of agricultural operations.
Ensuring that everyone on the farm understands and follows these safety measures is crucial for maintaining a safe and productive working environment.
Mrs Richards also emphasised the significance of building habits.
"In the daily busyness of life on the farm, we often overlook the simplest safety measures, or become complacent towards their importance in keeping our business running smoothly and efficiently,“ she said.
“Wearing seatbelts and proper PPE in vehicles such as tractors and side by sides is a fundamental practice that requires a daily commitment.
"We often hear ourselves making excuses like, ‘it’s a flat paddock’ or ‘there’s too many gates to get in and out for’. But the reality is, when we carve out exceptions, we compromise safety. And ultimately, that puts lives and limbs at risk.“
Incidents involving farm machinery are a leading cause of injuries and fatalities, with 63 per cent of on-farm fatalities in 2023 being attributed to farm vehicles or mobile farm machinery.
Top strategies for vehicle and machinery safety
Regular maintenance and inspections
Conducting regular maintenance and thorough inspections of all vehicles and machinery ensures they are in optimal working condition.
This helps identify and address potential issues before they become serious hazards.
Keeping a detailed maintenance log can aid in tracking the condition and service history of equipment.
Wearing seatbelts
Seatbelts are a fundamental safety feature that can save lives in the event of a rollover or collision.
It is important to make wearing seatbelts a mandatory practice for all operators of tractors, machinery and other farm vehicles such as utes and SSVs.
Providing proper inductions
Comprehensive inductions for new, seasonal and returning workers are essential, covering the safe operation of all machinery, highlighting specific safety protocols and emergency procedures.
Refresher courses provided regularly are a great way to keep all staff updated on safe practices.
Creating a safe work environment
Ensure that work areas are free of obstructions and hazards.
Clear communication with other workers about the movement and operation of machinery can prevent incidents.
Designating specific zones for machinery operation can further reduce risks.
Implementing safety protocols
Establish and enforce safety protocols for all farm operations involving vehicles and machinery.
This includes guidelines for safe driving, machinery operation, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Regularly reviewing and updating these protocols keeps safety at the forefront.
