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College hosts safety courses for horse industry

Equestrian businesses across Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire attended a free event at Oaklands College in St Albans last week to get the latest advice on health and safety issues.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) joined forces with Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire local authorities to host a day of free sessions dedicated to issues specific to the equine industry.

Over 30 delegates attended the sessions which offered expert presentations on health and safety issues as well as covering risk assessment. Delegates were able to take part in a practical hazard-spotting exercise in a working stable yard to recognise the importance of identifying potential risks such as heavy lifting and driving all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) without protective head gear.

Penny Leede, HSE lnspector, said:

"Handling and riding horses is a satisfying and enjoyable experience, however it is important to stay safe around horses to avoid unnecessary accidents or injuries.

I was delighted that so many people were able to attend this event. Preventing an accident is much better than having to deal with the consequences. The ability to provide practical advice helped people identify areas of real risk to ensure the safety of those working in riding schools and livery yards."

Notes to editors

  1. Qualified Equine Lecturer Annabel Montgomery (BHS11 SM) from Oaklands College delivered the key speech.
  2. LA contact details:
    • Claire Bell, Team Leader, Central Bedfordshire Council: www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk, Tel: 0300 300 8000
    • Jeannette Hollingsworth-Biggs, Environment Health Officer: Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council: www.welhat.gov.uk, Tel: 01707 357000
    • Paul Thomas, Environment Health Officer, East Hertfordshire Council: www.Eastherts.gov.uk, Tel: 01279 655261

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Updated 2010-09-14