Don’t chance it – CHANGE IT!

A major HSE campaign is launched this month (October 2007) to raise awareness and target accidents caused by falls from vehicles. While it is primarily aimed at the haulage business, there are significant numbers of accidents in the agricultural industry that could be prevented if simple control measures were adopted.

There are three key areas that cause most incidents:

1. Carrying passengers in unsafe positions – only carry someone else if a proper passenger seat is fitted and never on drawbars or loaded trailers.
2. Falls from vehicles during loading/unloading or maintenance – plan work to avoid climbing onto trailers if possible but if it is necessary make sure you keep the work area clear of trip hazards and take extra care.  If you need to work at height, for example to clean a combine or change cab filters, use suitable access equipment.
3. Slips/trips mounting tractors or mobile machines – always use the steps and handholds provided and face inwards so that you can maintain a good grip.  Keep cab steps well maintained and never jump down from a tractor cab or machine – you don’t have to fall far to fall hard!

Agriculture is a particularly arduous environment but taking a few moments to keep floors, pedals and boots clean and mud-free will help to prevent some of those simple slip/trip accidents.  Wearing suitable footwear with good grip and a slip resistant sole will also help.

Campaign materials such as posters and pocket cards are available from the HSE website at hse.gov.uk/fallsfromvehicles. The free leaflet Tractor Action (hse.gov.uk/pubns/agindex.htm) also has some specific information related to agriculture. If you are an employer or a manager these can help you to raise awareness and prevent these accidents which could cost your business money.