A change in behaviour and attitude is needed in the farming sector to prevent accidents and fatalities on farms and crofts.
That was the message from NFU Scotland president, Allan Bowie, in response to Health and Safety Executive statistics which revealed there were 27 deaths on farms across the UK last year. This is down on the five-year average of 32 deaths.
“One death on Scotland’s farms and crofts is one too many and many of us have witnessed first-hand the heartbreak and devastation this can cause,” said Mr Bowie.
“Agriculture has one of the poorest records for accidents of any occupation, and although these statistics reveal that the numbers of fatalities for the UK as a whole have reduced year on year, for Scotland they have reduced by just one death. We still have a lot of work to do yet to change the attitudes of our farmers.”
He said those working in the industry were not invincible and accidents did happen.
“Until farmers, crofters and those working with the industry realise that, then we will continue to see heartbreak on farms across the country,” added Mr Bowie.
“Farming is unique from other occupations – we tend to have a number of family members from various generations working together. It is all too easy to take a shortcut, and when something goes wrong it can have a life-changing impact on family, friends and the business.
“Our farms are our home and livelihood. Throughout Farm Safety Week, we have been challenging farmers and crofters to constantly ask themselves the question ‘who would fill your boots?’ were a tragedy to happen.”
